Solar program could help rural school budgets

PHOENIX — Some Arizona schools will open this year under a new program that could save money on their electric bill.

The “Solar for Schools” program allows utility company Arizona Public Service to build solar-power systems at schools in mostly rural areas of the state. The deal could make things easier on their utility budget.

“Schools participating in the program have contracted with APS to secure a fixed utility rate for 20 years,” said APS spokeswoman Jenna Shaver.

Xix schools in Cottonwood, Oak Creek and Douglas are taking part.

“APS gets all of the electricity (generated by the equipment). The participating schools get a fixed rate for 20 years. It’s a win-win for both of us,” Shaver said.

As part of the deal, the company installs kiosks in the schools where students can learn more about solar energy.

“Such as how the solar panels are tracking the sun, the amount of kilowatt hours the systems are generating, and how that offsets the schools’ energy usage,” said Shaver.

“Teachers have access to that information and can plan lessons around renewable energy generation.”

APS hopes to have the program running at 30 schools around the state by the end of the year.