Updated at 4:01 p.m., Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Niihau school now powered entirely by solar energy
Advertiser Staff
A 10.4-kilowatt photovoltaic power system with battery storage was recently installed at Ni'ihau Island School, making it the first school in the state to be powered entirely by solar energy, Kaua'i County officials announced today."This project shows that renewable energy self-sufficiency can be achieved in our DOE schools through the cooperative efforts of community, government and business," said Bruce Robinson. "A special thanks goes to Ni'ihau parents and students who put so much effort into this project, along with all the other contributors."
The project was made possible through a collaborative effort between the County of Kaua'i; state Department of Education; Seattle-based DPK Inc.; Gay & Robinson Inc.; Niihau Helicopters, Inc.; Niihau Ranch; Ron's Electric; and USDA Rural Development, the news release said.
"When partnerships are formed for the benefit of others, a lot can be accomplished," Kauai Mayor Bryan Baptiste said in the news release. "We're very pleased that Ni'ihau Island School is now equipped with a power system that will help improve the health and nutrition of the students and staff and upgrade educational opportunities for the students."
The renewable power source will also provide opportunities for community events.
Ni'ihau Island School serves about 30 students in grades K-12. The exact count varies daily because residents travel to and from Kaua'i and sometimes attend school there.
