Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education Implements Private Investment Project for Solar Power Generation at Schools

The Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education (Superintendent Kim Sang-gon) announced that it will launch solar power generation as a 'revenue-generating private investment project' starting in February next year.

Solar power generation will be installed on the rooftops of approximately 500 public schools across the province using the BOT (Built Operate Transfer) method beginning this year. The target schools will be divided into four regions, with one region selected for a pilot program first, and expansion to the remaining regions planned based on the results.

Private operators will invest capital for equipment and operate the solar power generation system for 15 years, after which the facilities will be transferred free of charge to the schools upon completion of the operating period.

Solar power generation responds to national energy policies by developing and promoting new and renewable energy in a situation requiring stable electricity supply, can be utilized as a learning space for students to study solar energy, and can increase educational finances by leasing idle school rooftops. The Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education is currently designating target schools and preparing facility project basic plans.

An official from Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education stated, "The solar power generation project is expected to result in the planting of 7.96 million trees annually and reduce carbon emissions by 22,000 tons," and added, "We will overcome the national power shortage through 'eco-friendly solar energy projects' including greenhouse gas reduction."