Dozens more schools will reduce their carbon footprint and power costs thanks to a further investment of $2.2 million, delivered through the Allan Labor Government’s Greener Government School Buildings program.

Minister for Education Ben Carroll today announced the latest round of the Labor Government’s funding for the installation of solar panels at 44 schools by June 2024, taking the total investment in the program to $20 million.

With the program now in its third round, a total of 276 schools across the state are participating in the initiative, helping them lower emissions and reduce the costs of powering school campuses – helping reach the Labor Government’s goal of net zero emissions by 2045.

Once fully implemented, annually the program will:

• achieve a total installed capacity of 11,153 kilowatts across the school portfolio – enough to generate renewable electricity to power more than 1,350 houses
• reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 16,500 tonnes – the same as removing 2,300 cars off the road
• save schools more than $3 million on their power bills.

The Greener Government School Buildings program removes the upfront costs of installing a solar power system that may otherwise discourage schools from doing so and will help Victoria meet its nation-leading renewable energy and emissions targets of 95 per cent renewable energy by 2035.

To find out more about the Greener Government Schools Buildings program, visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/greener-government-school-buildings-program

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll

“We’re helping more schools reduce their power bills and become more sustainable and energy efficient.”

“Schools that receive solar panels through this program will be doing their bit for the environment by contributing towards the Labor Government’s goal of net zero emissions by 2045.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos

“We’re leading the nation in setting ambitious emissions targets, and the Greener Government School Buildings Program is helping us deliver a sustainable future for all students.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio

“Renewables are the cheapest form of energy generation and by helping more schools install solar panels we’re lowering their emissions and helping them take control of their energy bills.”