Shalom College is planning to expand its campus with the introduction of a collaborative learning building and the largest school solar farm in Queensland. Principal Dan McMahon said the two major projects, which were currently with Bundaberg Regional Council for assessment, were of a high priority for the school due to its continued growth.He said the proposed Shalom solar farm, which would be situated on three acres of property on campus, would not only educate students about the environment but would also be a tangible step in reducing the greenhouse emissions from the college.“This system will be the largest solar and battery system installed in any school in Queensland,” he said.
“The three acres of solar panels will tilt as they follow the sun during the day to maximise solar energy generation.“810 kilowatts of solar energy will be generated and then stored in Tesla batteries. This will result in 800 tons of carbon abatement per year.”Mr McMahon said students would see a practical application of alternate energy production in action with the solar farm providing up to 80 per cent of the energy requirements for Shalom.
“The $400,000 per year the college currently spends on the purchase of electricity from the grid will be able to be spent on student learning moving forward,” he said.“The project will cost approximately $3 million but should be cost neutral within seven years.”Mr McMahon said the solar farm project was targeted for construction early next year.
Bundaberg Now
By Ashley Clark – 9 October 2019