NSW school makes landmark commitment to sustainability - Education Matters Magazine
Latest News, Sustainability

NSW school makes landmark commitment to sustainability

A New South Wales-based school has become the first in the state to sign onto a Corporate Renewable Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which will see it powered by at least 90 per cent renewable energy, using wind and solar power.

A New South Wales-based school has become the first in the state to sign onto a Corporate Renewable Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which will see it powered by at least 90 per cent renewable energy, using wind and solar power.

Business energy retailer Flow Power welcomed Ascham School to its customer portfolio. The landmark agreement will see Ascham School become the first school in NSW to enter a deal of this kind, providing them with an expected long-term reduction in costs.

Its energy will be powered by a combination of wind and solar power in real time, calculated at 30-minute intervals, allowing the school to control and optimise its use of renewable power.

The deal will help Ascham School achieve its ambitious sustainability targets, contribute to a lower carbon economy and reduce overall emissions, as well as offsetting grid electricity consumption.

Ascham School’s Business Manager Mrs Candice Heapes said, “Late last year we felt pressured by another provider into accepting significantly higher energy retail prices when our three-year agreement with them ended. This, along with our growing focus on sustainability as part of our strategic plan, spurred us on to look at alternative options and sources of energy. At Ascham, the whole school is committed to sustainable actions, so drawing energy from wind and solar farms is a terrific step in greening our future.”

Flow Power first introduced corporate renewable PPAs to the Australian market in 2017 and now counts Olam Orchards, ANCA Machines and Burra Foods as customers. The latest agreement with Ascham School echoes the growing appetite for PPAs in the Australian market, and Flow Power’s continued success in meeting the demand.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Ascham School as a customer, and applaud their leadership in taking on an agreement of this kind,” said Matthew van der Linden, Managing Director of Flow Power.

“The education sector is uniquely placed to benefit from Corporate Renewable PPAs, due to the longevity of its schools and of the PPAs themselves. We look forward to collaborating with Ascham School throughout the duration of this agreement to deliver an energy solution that evolves to fit the school’s needs.”

Send this to a friend