FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 12, 2003
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112 

Bradenton School Receives Solar Electric System

--Solar energy lights classrooms and imaginations--

BRADENTON – Florida schools are using the state’s free supply of sunshine to boost their energy needs. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), together with Florida Power and Light, the Florida Solar Energy Center and the Manatee County School Board, today held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly installed solar electric system at Sara Scott Harllee Middle School.

“Planning for future energy needs ensures a brighter tomorrow for Florida,” said DEP Deputy Secretary for Regulatory Programs and Energy Allan Bedwell. “Installing solar technology in our schools protects our environment and quality of life and also provides an unparalleled educational opportunity for students.”

The solar electric system installation is a part of Florida’s Solar for Schools Program, which aims to place 29 solar electric systems in schools throughout the state. A first of its kind in Florida, the public-private partnership combines clean energy production with science in schools.

“Florida’s energy and environmental futures are inextricably linked,” said Bedwell. “The most important source of energy is the energy we conserve. Advancing clean energy technology conserves resources, prevents pollution, saves taxpayer dollars and, in this case, teaches valuable lessons to the leaders of tomorrow.”

Unlike fossil fuels, the energy created by the solar unit emits no noise or pollution. The electric power generated by the system will be used to power the school’s classrooms, with excess energy returned to the local power grid. The system will also provide an on-site classroom for students to learn more about solar power and the benefits of energy conservation.