HOLY TRINITY SCHOOL BLOWING IN THE WIND

14 Jun 2010

Renewable energy is the way forward for a school in Enniskillen which is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. Holy Trinity Primary School has installed a wind turbine with a little help from the Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) SMART programme!



Holy Trinity Primary School has installed a 6kW wind turbine in the playground of the school that will produce approximately 10,000 units of environmentally friendly electricity every year, a significant saving on the school’s energy bills.



The wind turbine was installed as part of the NIE Wind for Schools Programme which provided some funding in addition to the Low Carbon Buildings Phase 2.



Brian Treacy, Vice Principal of the school, says the school is committed to saving energy. He says, “We feel that it is extremely important for us to set a good example to our pupils and the local community by embracing a renewable ‘clean’ energy. As the school is at the top of a hill a wind turbine was the best choice of renewable energy technology for our school and we are delighted to have it installed.”



Mr Treacy adds, “We all work together at Holy Trinity to try to minimise the carbon footprint of our school by practising energy saving methods like switching off lights and computers when they are not being used. We also have a recycling programme in place where we recycle paper and bottle tops. The wind turbine and all of the energy saving measures at the school are an inspiration and important educational resource for our pupils, staff and parents. They have helped us to think seriously about conserving energy at school, work and at home.”



Sarah Beldon, from NIE Energy, visited the school this week and was delighted to see the interest that the pupils have taken in the wind turbine. She said, “Northern Ireland has great potential for wind power and it is fantastic to see schools like Holy Trinity leading the way in creating a sustainable future. Renewable energy technologies will not only cut the carbon dioxide emitted into the local environment and reduce the school’s energy costs, but they also provide the teachers with valuable practical examples. ”



To find out more about saving energy and renewable energy solutions for your home, school or business check out the NIE Energy website www.nie-yourenergy.co.uk . The NIE SMART Programme is funded by Northern Ireland Electricity and managed by NIE Energy.

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