School is a place where children learn about the world through science. During the learning process, children will discover valuable lessons there.
While there are still pros and cons regarding schools, they are the first place children conduct scientific experiments. One example is an experiment on generating electricity using the sun.
Some schools provide these facilities for their students to conduct scientific experiments, which, if continued, can become valuable products in the future.
In fact, the use of solar power plants (PLTS) in schools is nothing new. This is evident in the 98 schools in Jakarta that use solar power plants (PLTS).
The next question is, does the use of PLTS in schools have other positive impacts?
Read the following discussion!
Function of Solar PV in Schools
The majority of solar panel technology is not connected to the electricity grid, thus providing an alternative energy source. Sunlight can supplement the electricity grid's energy consumption and store energy as a backup source during power outages.
Power outages in schools can disrupt teaching and learning activities. Teachers cannot deliver material effectively, and students have difficulty accessing learning material databases.
Solar panels are not only a source of energy in emergencies, but they can also be a learning tool for schoolchildren. Unlike previous generations, Generation Alpha is able to gain an understanding of solar energy from school age.
Understanding solar panels from an early age helps children develop insight into clean energy sources. Teachers can also utilize solar panels as teaching materials about electricity.
Benefits of Solar Power Plants for Schools
Solar power plants have significant benefits for the sustainability of schools. They benefit not only school administrators but also the academic community, including teachers and students.
a. Benefits for Schools
Schools have many electronic devices running simultaneously, such as lights and computers. The use of these electronic devices is highly dependent on the electricity company's electricity provider's policies.
Schools that install solar power plants can reduce annual expenses. This allows the school's annual budget to be maximized for teacher welfare and learning facilities.
Panca Budi Development University has conducted research on the impact of solar energy use at the Fajrul Iman Modern Islamic Boarding School in Patumbak, Deli Serdang, Medan. This research has been published in the Bestari Community Service Journal (JPMB).
In this study, solar cells were installed on the roofs of Islamic boarding school dormitories and the house of the Islamic boarding school leader.
Test results showed a cost efficiency of 69%, with electricity bills dropping from Rp 2,600,000 per month to Rp 1,800,000 per month.
This project used 17 100W solar cell panels installed on the grid using dual output storage and controlled power sharing.
b. Benefits for Students
Students at schools that install solar power plants are able to provide direct examples of environmentally friendly energy use. Indirectly, your school has participated in a zero-emission commitment.
In addition to demonstrating commitment, solar panels can provide students with insights into how electricity works. They provide a live example of how electricity is processed from sunlight.
Students can learn how to measure solar panel efficiency, determine panel installation angles, and calculate the amount of energy obtained from sunlight during sunrise.
Indirectly, your school has impacted future generations regarding renewable energy sources.
c. Benefits to the Community
School areas often serve as emergency evacuation posts because they can accommodate large numbers of people during natural disasters. Another impact of natural disasters is power outages around the school. If the school's power supply is cut off, authorities will have difficulty sending aid.
This situation is a good reason for schools to install solar panels. As the preferred location for emergency posts, schools need to provide space and energy sources to support activities such as lighting and communication lines.
This way, your school will be prepared early if the government requests it to convert into an emergency post to accommodate local residents.
Guidelines for Implementing Solar Power Plants for Schools
Installing solar power plants in schools requires guidance to help you organize the administrative process. This is done to make the process easier and more measurable. The following is a guide to solar power plant administration for schools.
Installing a solar power system (PLTS) at a school requires a guide to help you organize the administrative process. This ensures the project proceeds smoothly and systematically. Below is an administrative guide for school solar power installations.
a. Conduct an Energy Audit
The first step is to calculate the school's energy consumption. The process is similar to a financial audit, but the focus here is on energy usage.
The audit results will identify areas with the highest energy consumption, helping you cut down on excessive energy costs. Once the audit is complete, you can proceed to planning the solar panel installation.
b. Assess the School's Solar Potential
Second, determine how much solar energy your school can generate by considering factors such as location, available roof space, and shading from nearby buildings or trees. This information helps you determine the appropriate size and placement of the solar panel system.
c. Find a Solar Panel Provider
Consider partnering with a solar energy provider to assist with everything from design and planning to installation and maintenance. Look for a provider that meets your specific needs.
d. Secure Funding
Funding is often a challenge when installing solar panels, though this applies primarily to the initial setup; ongoing maintenance costs are much more manageable.
To reduce the financial burden, you can look for available research grants. You might also consider partnering with local companies to help fund your solar panel project.
e. Monitor System Operations Regularly**
After the system is installed, monitor it to ensure it operates correctly. Collaborate with your solar provider to arrange for routine monitoring and maintenance services that do not disrupt teaching and learning activities.
Solar Panel Installation with Batari Energy
Installing a solar panel system is no simple task. Naturally, there are many considerations that might cause hesitation or doubt. Will this impact the school's long-term sustainability? We understand this well. That is why Batari Energy is here to increase your electrical capacity without straining the school budget. Installation is carried out professionally by certified experts.
Schools are ideal settings for showcasing renewable energy systems. To make this a reality, you should familiarize yourself with the guidelines for installing solar power systems (PLTS) in schools.
Interested in installing a solar power system for your school? Consult with Batari Energy via this link!