Knysna Primary School Solar Project officially launched
29 July 2021
The Knysna Initiative for Learning and Teaching (KILT) and Sun Exchange has collaborated with Knysna Primary School to use solar power and reduce their utility costs.
The launch of solar project at the school comes at a time when the country is experiencing severe electricity shortages. Solar power will provide an alternative, cheaper source of energy for the school. The project is regarded as the first step in the journey to become energy independent.
Schools could save 20-55% of their utility costs within the first year following the implementation of this technology.
KILT and Sun Exchange plan to extend the programme to three other schools by the end of 2021.
Following discussions with the Western Cape Government on how to rebuild better after the Knysna fires in 2018, KILT decided to launch this programme. KILT wished to enable schools to become more self-sustainable. By using their own solar power, the schools will hopefully be able to increase their discretionary spending on other priorities. Many schools were evaluated as potential service providers for the solar project, with Sun Exchange being chosen as the preferred service provider.
Specialized Solar Systems was contracted to do the installations at the schools.
"Supporting education in Knysna is a crucial component of our social investment program, and I am pleased to announce that we have contributed to the Knysna Primary School Solar Project. The initiative is an excellent illustration of how, via collaboration, we can aid schools in strengthening their infrastructure without imposing a financial strain. We think that this approach is a leading recipe for cooperation in energy production in South Africa,” stated Sandy Ueckermann, Managing Director of KILT.
Knysna Primary School Principal, Ivor White, said, "It is crucial to us that we gain the greatest benefit from the savings and sustainability improvements that solar power will provide, especially during these financially challenging times."
Knysna Primary School will save R1,57m over the 20-year lease term, which is an average of R78 000 per year. In total, the solar power plant will prevent 622 tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere.
