Written answers

Tuesday, 23 October 2007

Department of Education and Science

Renewable Energy

10:00 pm

Photo of Áine BradyÁine Brady (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 454: To ask the Minister for Education and Science her plans to include the use of solar panels or other renewable technologies in the design of schools here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24825/07]

Photo of Mary HanafinMary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department is to the forefront of design with respect to energy efficiency in school buildings. However, the length of the school day and school holiday periods generally impact on the suitability of alternative energy options in school buildings.

My Department's design guidelines set the benchmark for low energy design in schools and are clearly focused on energy efficiency and are based on solid energy research projects.

It has been demonstrated that all schools designed and built to these standards can have an energy performance that is 2.3 times more efficient than international best practice and nearly five times more efficient than schools built in the late 80's.

My Department's policy is supported by a strong research programme with over twenty research projects at various stages currently in hand.

A hybrid approach is taken with respect to low energy design in schools based on maximising natural resources and energy efficient technologies. Schools are positioned to maximise gain from the sun during the day for passive solar heating and natural daylight. Passive solar design saves 20% of early morning heating period and adequate natural daylight when combined with automated lighting systems in the classrooms can eliminate the need for electrical light for up to 80% of the schools teaching hours.

Energy efficient boilers and individual room temperature controls combined with a strong emphasis on air tight testing and high insulation levels minimise heat requirements. Water usage is minimised through automatic shut off taps and dual flush toilets, while local water blending valves are provided to prevent scalding. All of the above design features are included in the Department's Generic Repeat Design schools.

My Department has developed a number of carbon neutral schools as part of research projects involving both geothermal and wood pellet installations and further projects are currently being assessed in respect of their suitability for wider rollout.

The performance of my Department in the area of low energy design has been recognised at both National and International level with sustainable energy awards for excellence in Design and Specification.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.