BUILDING THE EDUCATION REVOLUTION
CHALLENGE
The Building the Education Revolution (BER) program was a $16.2 billion undertaking by the Australian Government with around 24,000 school projects to be delivered in every community across Australia from 2009 to 2011. The program aimed to upgrade learning environments and facilities in schools such as libraries, halls and classrooms to bring schools into the 21st Century.
As a contracted supplier to the NSW Government Solgen Energy was engaged to install photovoltaic systems for government schools across NSW as part of the BER program. Solgen Energy liased with Government-appointed Managing Contractors such as Abi Group, HansenYuncken, Brookfield Multiplex and the REED Group to deliver end-to-end solutions tailored to each individual school. Solgen Energy took control of all aspects of the installation process from planning and design through to installation and commissioning as well as providing training and support to school staff.
SOLUTION
In the design and installation of each system Solgen Energy used only the highest quality components including Schott panels and SMA inverters. Schott panels are recognized world leaders in durability and efficiency and consistently deliver higher yields when compared with other manufacturers.
In order to gain the most educational benefit from the photovoltaic system, each school had SMA web-based monitoring installed which allows staff and students to view real-time electricity generation data and thus link with tangible learning outcomes. Solgen Energy provided comprehensive support and training in the use of this monitoring system at the conclusion of each installation.
BENEFITS
The installation of photovoltaic systems at schools provides reduced energy costs for schools, educational outcomes for students and an increased awareness of “green energy” in the community.
• Demonstrating to students and the wider community a tangible way to reduce their carbon footprint and providing a focus for energy saving initiatives at schools
• Providing a platform for discussion for environmental issues and linking to relevant aspects of the school curriculum.
• Reducing schools’ electricity consumption and consequent electricity bills
• Reducing schools’ contributions to carbon dioxide emissions and the enhanced greenhouse effect.
TESTIMONIAL
“Throughout the BER programme rollout and post completion period, Solgen was of great assistance through its estimating, technical advice, customer support and quality installations to 77 of 169 Abigroup Sydney Region Public Schools”
Brian Fitzgerald, Project Manager, Abigroup
