Tuesday August 28, 2018

Sun shines on OLSH

Schools

Lindy McNamara

Tuesday August 28, 2018

Tuesday August 28, 2018 Comments

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Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College will become more energy efficient in the near future, thanks to winning a national Solar Panel for Schools competition.

Run by Origin Energy, the competition will see solar systems, each worth more than $26,000, installed in five schools across Australia. OLSH College was the only SA winner and expects the solar system will save it more than $11,000 on its annual electricity bill and offset its annual carbon emissions by the equivalent of 20 acres of conserved forest in one year.

The college’s winning entry was a video which showcased the “good energy” the school generates by embracing and celebrating more than 40 diverse cultures and encouraging “inclusion and warmth” amongst the school community.

“The dedicated and active staff group responsible for the award-winning entry reflects the entire school’s strong commitment to spreading good energy, aligning with the college’s strategic plan across the domains of teaching and learning, resourcing, community and culture, and Catholic identity,” said principal Maria Urbano.

She added that not only would the solar panels save the college money, they would provide a learning opportunity for students.

“We’re looking forward to having the solar panels installed to help strengthen our existing educational programs around renewable energy and to demonstrate how they work.”

OLSH College business manager Fiona Miller said the financial savings resulting from the solar system would go towards broadening and strengthening curriculum across all areas, “in particular ecological sustainability, science, mathematics, technology and community action projects”.

“These enhance student learning outcomes, assist in role modelling and our ongoing advocacy of best practice in spreading good energy,” Ms Miller said.

Origin’s head of retail Jon Briskin said hundreds of entries were received for the competition and the company was “overwhelmed” by the “remarkable stories” of what schools are doing for each other, the environment and the community.

“We’re thrilled to be rewarding OLSH College for their efforts, and we’re confident that their new solar system will help them continue to spread even more good energy in their community.”

OLSH’s winning entry can be viewed on YouTube.