BISD and New Tech Plan for Renewable Energy

Makalya Borgonovo

10/11/2023

New Tech is a mostly non-renewable school, meaning the majority of the power, electricity, and gas in the school is powered by fossil fuels and non replenishable sources. However, this in no way reflects our school values or beliefs. While New Tech does not currently have a plan for increasing the renewable energy in place however, that doesn't mean there will be no newer renewable energy substitutes in the future. 

     Renewable energy has been instilled in all of us as a good thing since elementary school. But what makes it such a good thing? Renewable energy as a whole reduces Carbon Dioxide emissions by up to 75% a year, stated by Irena.org. While one school switching to renewable energy may not reduce overall emissions of greenhouse gasses, it will draw the attention of other, larger schools. If renewable energy were to gain traction in schools this would greatly impact emissions and pollution in a very positive way. 

      Not only would switching to renewable energy help the environment but it would also provide a much safer and efficient school environment. Even if the school was powered only partly by solar power, we would still have power in certain areas and be able to move students there during power issues.

      Until now, New Tech has not looked into renewable energy substitutes. According to Mrs. Winters, the greatest reason for this is because of the high cost. While cost is the greatest issue with renewable energy it could still be possible to begin fundraisers and school events to raise money towards beginning a switch to renewable energy at New Tech. While there would have to be more research, money, and time put in, renewable energy is a real possibility. The best renewable energy option for New Tech to switch to would be solar panels as they are the most convenient and relatively cheap option. According to the United Nations, “solar energy intercepted by the Earth is about 10,000 times greater than the rate at which humankind consumes energy.” If New Tech were to implement solar panels it would likely start by only powering certain buildings and working up to more. New Tech would be setting an example not only for the students but potentially other schools. While the cost may seem to pose an issue, in the long run the solar panels will not only pay for themselves but save the school and district money while bettering the environment. 

Photo By Sydney Skaggs