Final National Solar Schools Program funding announced

Successful schools for the National Solar Schools Program (NSSP) 2012-13 funding round have been announced. Over $24 million will be distributed to 804 Australian schools to install solar power systems and a range of energy-efficiency measures as they take action against climate change, in a scheme initiated by the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency.

Over 1600 applications were received in the 2012-13 funding round - an indication that schools are committed to reducing their energy consumption and educating their school communities on the benefits of renewable energy sources.

Applications were assessed using merit-based criteria, meaning schools have to demonstrate value for money, as well as environmental and educational benefits. Applications from schools located in remote or low socioeconomic areas received additional weighting to allow funding to be directed to schools most in need.

The 2012-13 funding round was the last opportunity for schools to apply for funding. There will be no more grants provided under the program.

The program offered eligible primary and secondary schools the opportunity to compete for grants of up to $50,000 (GST exclusive), to install solar and other renewable power systems, solar hot water systems, rainwater tanks and a range of energy-efficiency measures.

Since the program commenced on 1 July 2008, over 8300 schools have registered their interest to participate (88% of all eligible schools). Over 5300 schools have been awarded a grant, totalling more than $217 million in funding. Over 90% of these projects include solar power systems.

Of these, more than 3300 projects have been installed across the nation. These schools are already generating their own electricity from renewable sources and improving their energy efficiency by reducing energy consumption.