Virtual power plants installed at regional schools

The WA Government’s initiative to install virtual power plants (VPPs) at regional schools has reached the halfway mark, with the technology now in place at three schools in Geraldton and one school in Kalbarri.

VPPs are made up of a network of distributed energy resources, such as rooftop solar panels and batteries, which feed into and support the electrical grid.

Seven regional schools are participating in the project, which is being delivered by the Department of Education and Synergy and supported by the WA Government’s Schools Clean Energy Technology Fund.

Education Minister Tony Buti said the VPPs would provide fantastic educational opportunities for staff and students.

“The Schools VPP Pilot Project will provide learning opportunities related to STEM education, including how energy is produced and used, as well as about technologies that help to create a more sustainable future,” he said.

“Schools may also benefit from reduced energy consumption while supporting the electricity networks in Geraldton and Kalbarri.”

The Schools VPP Pilot Project is currently in place at Geraldton Senior High School, Waggrakine Primary School, Champion Bay Senior High School and Kalbarri Regional District High School.

VPPs will soon be installed at the three remaining schools: Hannans Primary School, Kalgoorlie Primary School and O’Connor Primary School.

“I am pleased to see schools in Geraldton and Kalbarri given access to renewable energy resources through Synergy-installed batteries with their own solar PV systems,” said Energy Minister Reece Whitby.

“Regional VPPs will inspire the next generation of energy leaders to explore new possibilities for WA’s energy future.”

More information about WA’s Schools VPP Pilot Project is available on the Synergy website.

Image credit: iStock.com/art-4-art