In an inspiring step towards a greener and more resilient future, the Living School in Lismore has been awarded a significant grant by the AIS (Australian Independent Schools) program to install an impressive solar and battery energy system.
Ben Pietzsch from ProSolar Australia, who installed the array, told The Echo, ‘This project is more than just a win for the school – it’s a shining example of how community spirit, innovation, and sustainability can come together for the greater good’.
‘The new system not only dramatically reduces the Living School’s carbon footprint and energy bills, but it also offers a powerful gift to the broader Lismore community.
Peer-to-peer
‘Thanks to a pioneering peer-to-peer energy trading platform, the school can share its surplus clean energy with local households, delivering cheaper, greener power to the community.
‘More critically, in times of disaster – whether storms or floods – the Living School will act as a beacon of energy security. With its own renewable power generation and storage capabilities, the school will be able to provide vital electricity, making it a true lifeline for Lismore families when they need it most.
‘This initiative is a testament to what’s possible when we face the challenges of climate change and rising living costs and energy reliability that are pressing hard on regional communities’.
Pietzsch said, ‘Lismore has weathered more than its fair share of hardships in recent years’.
National model
‘Today, thanks to vision, courage, and community collaboration, it also stands as a national model for energy resilience and sustainability. Here’s hoping more schools – and more towns – follow this bright lead.
‘We are very excited to be a part of this cutting edge project for the Living School and our region.
‘Many businesses and organisations can now take advantage of the rebates available in NSW to create their own power, store it, use it and/or sell it on to the community-keeping our power local, produced by us for us,’ adds Ben.
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