We pledge to be ambassadors of clean, renewable energy, striving to minimize consumption, harness renewable sources, and make energy production a tangible part of learning. Our actions power us to be fully powered by renewables and light the path to a more sustainable future.

We will become energy-independent using a mixture of renewable energy sources to maximise learning opportunities. Beyond this, we will generate surplus renewable energy for distribution back to the system/surrounding community. 

Our Pledge in Action

Our learning environment is intentionally designed to keep us connected to nature. This means that at times it is perfect and peaceful, at times it is hot and uncomfortable. We embrace a level of discomfort for the the good of the planet. We draw on traditional practices and seek innovative solutions.

Moderation:

• We always seek to minimise the amount of power we utilise by paying attention to this when considering new buildings, plant and equipment.

• We ‘switch off when not in use’ as a habit and have tech free days.

• We use the open flow classroom approach to reduce powered lighting and avoid airconditioning.  

Optimisation:

• We invest in renewable solutions that are high quality, and are realistically maintainable by our Operations Team. 

• We find solar solutions that are suitable to our local environment, school structures, surfaces and orientations to maximise their productivity.

• We continue to decrease reliance on grid power and allow excess energy to be fed back to the grid for credits or for battery storage, noting that peak usage times in school often align with peak solar energy production.

• While we always try to moderate and reduce power consumption, we accept and keep pace with our needs by increasing our clean, renewable energy production.

Combination:

• We always have a variety of solutions, but limit ourselves for now to solar and micro-hydro - as the most suitable to our campus environment.

• Solutions and systems are to be as visible as possible to facilitate learning. 

Strategic Learning and Solutions Focus: Reliable micro-hydro solution and a refreshed and expanded PV system. Solutions are visible and understandable to our learners. Consumption is monitored and will direct action to achieve energy independence.

What does this mean for me?

You are responsible for this:

• Switching off when anything is not in use or needed - devices, fans, lights, projectors etc

• Don't buy any powered product that is not needed

• Loving and embracing our 'power down' days

• Finding ways to get involved in renewable energy learning and projects - contact solutions@greenschool.org

• Coming to the Solutions Centre (near the crystal) to discover how our solar and micro-hydro renewable energy systems work

Showcase

The