Solar panels: in Orne, this high school produces 65% of the electricity it consumes

After an increase in electricity prices since 2022 due to the war in Ukraine, a reflection on the energy consumption started to limit the hemorrhage. Quickly, those in charge of the establishment turned to the photovoltaism.

Remember that the Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin school complex was also connected to the wood boiler plant network in the town of Flers (Orne).

A production of 80,000 kWh

After long months of work, the high school Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin inaugurated on Thursday May 30, 2024, its 350 m² photovoltaic panels installed on the new playground and on the roof of the cafeteria. This, in the presence of Jérôme Nury, MP for Orne, elected officials, teachers, and Christophe Larkin, director of the school.

“I am happy to welcome you in this bright sunshine for the inauguration of the photovoltaic plant,” declared Christophe Larkin at the outset.

62% of consumption provided by the sun

In total, the photovoltaic panels fixed on an area of ​​350 m2 produce 80,000 kWh per year, part of which is resold to Enedis. Energy production which represents 62% of the establishment’s annual energy consumption. 38% remains to be financed which is represented by the 350m² of photovoltaic panels.

This project is the result of a long reflection on our energy consumption. It started two years ago, when the war in Ukraine led to a surge in prices.

An E3D labeled project

This project was developed by the ministry responsible for‘National Education to recognize and encourage schools and educational establishments which engage in a global approach to sustainable development.

This project, labeled E3D (Establishment with a global sustainable development approach), falls within this framework while respecting sustainable development. This was financed by the Region to the tune of 30%.

A “pioneering” project set to go further

“No establishment can currently offer 350 m² of photovoltaic panels”, mentions the director of the school complex. Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin high school ist the first establishment to offer such energy production which will be profitable in 15 years. “Our ultimate goal is to go even further with a complete energy independence“, specifies Christophe Larkin.

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