Report Highlights Potential of Solar Panels on Schools

A new report from research group Environment NC highlights the great potential for boosting solar energy in our state through installation of solar panels on public schools.

According to Environment NC, “Solar panels on the rooftops of roughly 2,400 (about 90%) of North Carolina’s public schools could produce enough electricity to power almost 150,000 typical homes each year. Furthermore, taking advantage of North Carolina’s full potential for solar on schools would reduce climate-warming carbon dioxide pollution by as much as taking almost 280,000 cars off the road for a year, and would cut air pollution that puts kids’ health at risk.” 

Health & Economic Benefits

Two benefits in particular are worth noting: cleaner air and lower energy bills. According to the report, “Approximately one out of every 12 North Carolina residents currently suffer from asthma, a leading cause of school absenteeism.” Solar panels are much cleaner than using fossil-fuels to generate electricity.

When it comes to economic benefits, it depends greatly on multiple factors, such as how much sun the school gets. However, the report shares multiple economic benefits that schools and communities could enjoy. 

“Solar panels can lower monthly energy bills – protecting school budgets against unexpected spikes in fossil fuel prices – and make schools more energy independent. Every year, U.S. schools spend around $8 billion on energy costs, their second-largest cost after teacher salaries. Monthly savings on energy bills can be redistributed to building repairs, teachers’ salaries or classroom supplies.”

You can read the full report here.