500 Schools Nationwide Selected for Solar Panels

The Government has selected 500 schools across New Zealand to receive solar panels. This initiative aims to improve energy affordability and resilience in schools.

Energy Minister Simeon Brown and Education Minister Erica Stanford made the announcement at Te Papapa School in Auckland, which is the first school to install solar panels under the pilot scheme. This is part of the $30 million Solar on Schools programme, launched with Budget 2026.

The project will see 340 schools in the North Island, 157 in the South Island, and three in the Chatham Islands benefit from solar energy. This initiative is expected to cut power costs for schools and promote the use of renewable energy.

By generating clean energy on school rooftops, the programme not only aims to decrease electricity expenses but also provides opportunities for local businesses in the solar industry. The project is considered a significant step forward in helping schools adopt sustainable energy solutions.

Originally reported by Beehive.govt.nz - The official website of the New Zealand Government.