Swiss International School Dubai is installing solar panels to deliver enough energy to meet a quarter of the school’s energy needs.
UAE-based, sustainable energy firm, Yellow Door Energy, will install 1,366 solar panels, that will also provide shade to 200 parking spots at the school, during the summer break. Measuring around 3,000 square meters, the project will generate around 1,300 megawatt-hours of clean energy in the first year of operation, offsetting 920 metric tons of carbon emissions.
As per the firm, the system will produce 30,680 megawatt-hours of clean energy over its expected lifetime of 25 years, avoiding 21,700 metric tons of carbon emissions. The project is expected to be in operation by October 2023.
School Head of Operations Alexander Varghese says, “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Yellow Door Energy to equip our parking lot with solar panels. As we gear up for the summer holidays, we are eagerly preparing for the installation of solar panels on our brand-new carport. This solar lease signifies our unwavering commitment to sustainability, renewable energy, and embracing the Year of Sustainability.”
“At SISD, we understand the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for sustainable practices. By installing solar panels, we are taking a significant step towards reducing our carbon footprint and promoting environmental responsibility. This initiative allows us to generate clean and green electricity right here on our premises, reducing our reliance on conventional energy sources and making a positive impact on the community.“As we have a mission to prepare our pupils to become fully-rounded 21st-century global citizens, it’s vital we ensure they always act with sustainability in mind. Our team and pupils have already embraced some wonderful initiatives, from saving water initiatives to our eco-friendly mud garden.”
“We are not only providing our school with a clean energy solution but empowering pupils to become active contributors to our greener future. This latest initiative will have a remarkable, long-term effect on the entire school community, thanks to Yellow Door Energy. We are also delighted with the parent support and willingness for this new initiative,” she said.
Yellow Door Energy will be responsible for financing, designing, building, commissioning, operating, and maintaining the solar plant for the duration of the lease.
Jeremy Crane, CEO & Founder of Yellow Door Energy, says, “Sustainability and education go hand in hand, and we are honoured that our solar project will contribute to Swiss International School Dubai’s sustainability vision. This project aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals of providing Quality Education as well as Affordable and Clean Energy.”
“As a UAE-founded company, Yellow Door Energy continues to ardently support the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Target and COP28’s objectives. We look forward to completing the solar power plant for SISD and having it inspire the students, teachers and staff at the school for many years to come,”remarked Crane.
