One high school in Manila is going green and educating youth about renewable energy. Sitero Francisco National High School is the first school in metropolitan Manila to use solar energy.
[Jameson Tan, Science Dept. Head, Sitero Francisco Nat'l High School]: (English) “We intend to inspire the Filipinos on thinking of possible ways of reducing carbon emission, on contributing to the reduction of greenhouse effect, and also to think of possible solutions that might trigger economic development on aspects of renewable energy.”
The renewable energy program supplements the school’s science curriculum.
[Cesar Villareal, Principal, Sitero Francisco Nat'l High School]: (male, Filipino) "If it's only in theory, it will be hard to imagine how it works. But if they see solar energy used in everyday life, they will be more interested. And aside from that, they could come up with more ideas and expand their knowledge."
With direct sunlight, the panels can generate up to 8 kilowatts an hour per day, storing them in batteries that can power light bulbs in a three-story building.
Students are beginning to appreciate solar power.
[Julia Naguit, Student]: (female, Filipino) "We're able to help the environment, because if we use the power coming from the regular grid, this uses fuel and this aggravates the warming of the atmosphere."
The school partnered with the U.S.-based Foundation for Environmental Education, which helped secure a donation of six solar panels from a Chinese firm.
The school also expects its electricity bill to be cut in half.
Solar energy is not new in the Philippines, but panels are still too costly for home use.
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