With budget cuts affecting School Districts across the country a few are looking at alternative ways to save money. Many schools are investing in solar power to help cost. It’s also a great hands on approach to teaching kids about the environment.

Renewable Energy World reports:

In New Jersey, there are currently 183 public and private schools with solar electric systems, according to the state Board of Public Utilities. And in Arizona, more than 40 schools have solar electric systems installed. In Florida, more than 100 ten-kilowatt solar electric systems are being installed at schools, for use as emergency shelters under part of the SunSense Schools program. In Madison, Wisconsin, Madison Gas and Electric’s Foundation has helped to fund solar arrays at all ten high schools within its service area. The largest solar market in the U.S., California, had more than three megawatts of solar installed at schools in August alone. Other states, including Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, and Texas have all had project announcements at schools in the past month.

As schools seek to close budget deficits and save money, solar can be an excellent fit, reducing energy costs and providing a hedge against rising energy prices. For many of the schools, the monetary savings over the life of the system is estimated in the millions of dollars. For instance, the Antelope Valley Union High School District expects to save $40 million in energy savings over the life of the project. The Bellevue Union School District is guaranteed to save $750,000 in the first five years and expects to save more than $3.3 million over the life of the system.

If you think your School District can benefit from using solar energy let your local school board know!