Some Schools In Solo Start Installing Solar Power Roofs

Photo via Antara

JAKARTA - A number of schools in Solo City, Central Java have begun to utilize rooftop Solar Power Plants (PLTS) to meet energy needs in teaching and learning activities (KBM).

"This already exists in two elementary schools, one junior high school, and several vocational schools. It will depend on the need," said Surakarta Mayor Gibran Rakabuming Raka at the handover of the CSR program for the installation of PLTS Roofs and Solar Charging Stations at SDN 1 Kleco, SDN 2 Kleco, and SMPN 3 Surakarta from the Sinar Utama Nusantara (SUN) Foundation in Solo, Friday, February 11, reported by Antara.

He hopes that in the future the number of schools with solar panels can increase so that more buildings use new and renewable energy.

"We are coordinating with PT SUN. There are several other companies that will also donate solar panels. This is in line with what was discussed at the G20, including electric vehicles," he said.

On the same occasion, Sinar Utama Nusantara Foundation (SUN) Corporate External Affairs Head Anggita Pradipta said that the installation of solar panels is expected to save operational costs incurred by schools.

"The savings can be up to 30 percent per month. The stronger the light, the stronger the panel will absorb sunlight. For installation at SDN 1 Kleco and SDN 2 Kleco, each has a capacity of 3.1 kwp," he said.

However, he said, the technology cannot be used at night considering it is not equipped with a battery.

"Unlike the solar charging point, it has a battery. If the roof is for the day, if it can be charged it can also be used at night," he said.

Regarding the addition of the number of schools, he said, will see the need in schools and other places.

"It may also be possible to support MSMEs using new and renewable energy. We are ready to help. For schools in Solo, we have installed five, apart from these three, we have also installed them at SMKN 2 Surakarta and SMKN 5 Surakarta," he said.

He said for the installation in three schools, the investment value issued by the SUN Foundation was IDR 450-500 million.