EU backed solar power project for Selwyn College
In an article in the Solomon Star newspaper today, Saturday, Lachlan Eddie, wrote about an inauguration ceremony held at Selwyn College last week when a Photovoltaic PV Solar and Diesel Electricity Generation System was handed over by the visiting EU’s Designated Ambassador to the Pacific, His Excellency Sujiro Seam.
The article went on to say, quote:
The Principal of Selwyn College, Naphtali Lakwolly, said it is estimated that the school’s expenditure on energy will be reduced to approximately 60 per cent.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr Lakwolly said the electricity generated will give 24 hour coverage, seven days a week, and will help improve teaching and learning services of students and also extend the availability of internet services.
“Even though the project is small, it will reduce greenhouse gas emission, provide clean energy and mitigate climate change,” Mr Lakwolly added.
“Selwyn College is the first school in the country to have such a beneficiary project funded by the European Union which is implemented by the Solomon Islands Government.
“Speaking on behalf of the EU, HE Seam thanked the teachers and students of the school for their warmth hospitality in his first visit to the Solomon Islands and the College.
He said climate change is an essential threat.
“We have to fight climate change so that you have the future and one way is to donate such essential project like the PV Hybrid Solar Power System,” the Ambassador told the students.
He said this project is all about renewable energy, to reduce gas emission and promoting a sustainable way in renewable energy for everyone.
“This project is for your future because this is a school, and this is where leaders of this country are educated and human resources are invested,” the Ambassador commented.
According to Ambassador Seam, the new facilities is state of the art technology with batteries, solar panels and a diesel generator which will provide electricity for the entire school and also providing water through extracting water from boreholes through water pump.
It has to be acknowledged the EU has a close interest in working with the Solomon Islands and has generally assisted with disaster preparedness, maritime security, sustainable management of global public goods, fisheries and oceans management, inclusive and sustainable development, as well as peace and security.
The EU financial support has also been forthcoming in respect of the 'Pacific Partnership to End Violence Against Women and Girls' of the Spotlight Initiative.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
