The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Caribbean Clean Energy Programme, which seeks to improve the enabling environment for renewable energy in the region, recently made a significant donation to a high school in Westmoreland, Jamaica:

Petersfield High School in Westmoreland was recently the proud beneficiary of a donation of a 2.34kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system, which should enable them to effectively manage their energy bill.

The system was awarded to the institution by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through its Caribbean Clean Energy Programme (CARCEP).

The stand-alone system, which has the capability to produce 300kWh of electricity monthly, was officially handed over during a ceremony held on May 28.

The system contains solar modules, a mounting system, disconnect switches, charge controller, an automatic transfer switch, wiring, inverter and batteries at a total system value of $800,000.

Following the handover ceremony, USAID CARCEP commenced its second four-day solar photovoltaic (PV) installer training for students from the high school, residents of Petersfield, Paradise Park and surrounding communities.

“We thank our partners for the committed service to our young people, all in a bid to ensure that at least the next generation of Jamaicans are able to make sound solar energy decisions,” said Dr Michele Pinnock, Region Four director from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information, during her opening remarks.

Additionally, the USAID in-kind donation included a supply of 18W LED tubes to replace the existing fluorescent light bulbs, that will also help to improve the energy performance of the property. With this system installation and lighting upgrade, 75 teachers and just about 1,900 students will benefit from immediate energy savings amounting to approximately $30,000 in the school’s monthly electricity bill.

“Here at Petersfield High School, we consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have been selected as a beneficiary,” said school principal Clyde Evans.

“Of importance is the fact that not only have we received this system, but in addition, through partnership with USAID, our representatives along with others not directly connected to the school are being trained in the installation and use of the system,” he added.

Source: the Jamaica Gleaner.

[Image: via Mountain/\Ash]