The Western Australian (WA) Solar Schools Program supports solar (photovoltaic or PV) power systems installed in WA schools.

The objectives of the program are to:

• enable students to learn about renewable energy and ways to save energy;
• raise community awareness of sustainable energy;
• increase the uptake of renewable energy; and
• lead to the long term reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

The WA Solar Schools Program is funded by the Western Australian Government and administered by the Sustainable Energy Development Office (SEDO)

The information provided below is an overview of the WA Solar Schools Program and should be used as a guide only.  Full details of eligibility criteria, rebates available and the application process are provided in the program guidelines.

Eligibility

In December 2008, the Government of Western Australia expanded eligibility for the WA Solar Schools Program to enable non-government schools, including Catholic and Independent schools, to apply to the program.  The program, which has been in operation since November 2005, was previously only available to government schools.

WA primary, middle and high schools are eligible to apply to the program.  Non-government schools must be registered by the Minister for Education under the School Education Act 1999 and must be not-for-profit.

Rebates available

For solar power systems with an installed generating capacity of at least 950W, the WA Solar Schools Program will provide up to $12,500 (ex GST) for metropolitan schools and up to $13,000 (ex GST) for regional schools.  Schools must contribute a minimum of $1,000 (ex GST) towards the cost of the system.

Funding is available for both new systems and additions to existing systems.  For additions to existing systems, the school must not have previously received funding from SEDO for that system.

Schools can seek additional funding from the Australian Government's National Solar Schools Program (conditions apply).

How to apply

Schools must thoroughly read the WA Solar Schools Program Guidelines (PDF 78 KB) to ensure that they understand and comply with the requirements of the program before commencing the application process.

Stage 1 - Registration

Schools must register for the program by completing a Registration Form (Word 2.68 MB) and submitting it to SEDO.  SEDO will endeavour to notify schools of the results of the registration process within 1 month of receiving the Registration Form.

Schools that successfully register for the program will then be required to undertake a competitive quotation process for the installation of the solar power system, in accordance with the requirements in the program guidelines.

Schools will be provided with all relevant pre-purchase information and documentation upon successful registration to the WA Solar Schools Program.

Stage 2 - Pre-Purchase Application

Upon completion of the competitive quotation process, schools will be required to submit a Pre-Purchase Application Form to SEDO for assessment and approval. 

Once a Pre-Purchase Application has been approved the school can then proceed with ordering and installing the solar power system.

SEDO must approve the Pre-Purchase Application BEFORE equipment is ordered and installed.

Stage 3 - Rebate Application

When the installation of the solar power system has been completed, the school submits a Rebate Application Form to SEDO for assessment and approval.  SEDO will then pay the rebate to the school.

School Requirements

Solar Schools are required to meet a number of obligations under the program.  Some key obligations include, but are not limited to:

• carrying out a range of educational activities associated with the solar power system;
• raising awareness of the solar power system and sustainable energy within the broader school community; and
• reporting on the performance of the solar power system.
  

Info Sheet

Switch Your School to Solar Power (PDF 80KB )

Enquiries

Enquiries about the WA Solar Schools Program can be directed to SEDO on 9420 5721 or solarschools@energy.wa.gov.au.

Education and Information Resources


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