A large number of boarding schools in India have introduced renewable energy, particularly solar power, as part of their green initiative. In many cases solar panels have been fitted to the roofs of school hostels where they provide much of the energy needed. Some schools have even built hostels equipped with solar panels and other green technologies.

In addition, state governments have undertaken projects installing solar high mast lights and solar water heaters in hostels and residential schools. Boards have also introduced various smart energy systems. For example, one school has an IoT-enabled smart laundry system which allows students to do their laundry with a mobile app.

Solar Energy
As the name implies, solar energy systems make use of the sun’s rays to generate electricity. These systems have become increasingly popular in schools across India– so much so that they now supply nearly all the electricity used during daylight hours. In fact, some solar plants generate an excess amount of power which is then stored for later use.

Smart Energy Systems
Apart from solar energy systems, schools have also installed other types of smart energy systems aimed at reducing energy consumption. For example, we came across an IoT-enabled smart laundry system which allowed students to do their laundry using a mobile app.

Educational Benefits
Apart from being environmentally friendly, solar energy and smart energy systems also serve as great educational tools. Take the example of one school we visited during our research– it had a solar plant which generated nearly 100% of its daytime electricity needs for most of the year.

Students at this school were able to take guided tours of the plant; during these tours they learnt about renewable energy technologies and how they can be used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Benefits for Students
A solar plant provides such an education. If you want to find out more about the real-world applications of renewable energy technologies, take a look at a solar plant providing power to a school in India!
One-sentence Summary: Solar and smart energy systems in Indian school hostels are a great way to promote sustainability while educating future generations about renewable energy sources!