Solar panels to power Makati public schools

MANILA, Philippines — Public schools in Makati will soon be powered by solar energy under the local government’s push for sustainable energy, Mayor Abby Binay announced yesterday.

Binay said they would be installing solar panels in all public schools as well as local government offices, which will cut down energy consumption and costs while pushing the city’s advocacy for lower greenhouse gas emissions.

“This is part of our initiatives to reduce carbon footprint and leave a greener and healthier environment for the next generation of Makatizens,” she said during the launching of the “Brigada Eskwela” at the Comembo Elementary School.

Binay said that with solar energy, the city can continue supplying electricity to schools and offices even during calamities.

The installation of solar panels will be done in batches, with the Comembo Elementary School as the pilot site.

Makati has 25 public elementary schools, 10 junior high schools and eight senior high schools.

Makati will also roll out electric buses next year as part of the P724-million public transportation master plan in partneship with the Korea International Cooperation Agency.

Meanwhile, Binay thanked the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Rotary Club of Makati and the barangay councilors of Comembo for donating bicycles to the school.