Wind turbines plan for school
8:04am Wednesday 21st April 2010 in News
A PRIMARY school in could become the first in the borough to be powered using wind turbines.
Education chiefs have put forward plans to install two 15-metre turbines, costing £60,000, in the grounds of The Gates School in Bristle Hall Way, Westhoughton.
The school said it would benefit “enormously from significantly reduced utility costs” with savings being used to fund “better resources and more support staff timed in class”, as well as providing children with “many curriculum opportunities to explore environmental issues”.
Bolton Council, which is funding the project, started exploring the idea of using green energy in its schools at the start of the year, and identified The Gates Primary School because of its location.
The new power source is expected to reduce the school’s current electric use by 50 per cent.
It will also provide green energy for the school and Rainbow House, a children’s centre, next door.
Headteacher Kathryn Coiffait said: “We are very excited about the prospect of having wind turbines at The Gates.
“Not only will we be sending a clear message about the school’s commitment to sustainability and helping to protect our future world, but we will be able to save money on our energy bills and we can redirect this to enrich children’s learning experiences at the school.”
She added: “In addition, if the planning permission is agreed, we will be able to integrate this project into our curriculum.
“Children will be able to measure reductions in energy use and learn about wind turbines and climate change as part of a real experience.”
She said the school had worked closely with the council to ensure the turbines would not cause a nuisance to neighbours.
A council spokesman said: “Like any council building, schools need to look to reduce their carbon emissions and energy costs, and the creation of a wind turbine at The Gates will enable the school to save money and sell energy back to the grid.
“It will also help pupils to learn about the environment.”
