In a significant step towards environmental sustainability and energy independence, Kingswood College celebrated the completion of its new solar plant on Saturday, July 13, 2024 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Led by the College Council Executive, the event marked a milestone in the school’s 130-year history and its commitment to a greener future.

“The Kingswood solar plant was officially opened on Saturday the 13th of July, and we are already starting to see the benefits of sustainable energy production on our campus” said College Head Mr Leon Grové. “With a massive reduction in CO2 emissions as well as diesel usage, Kingswood now sits at the forefront of greening our school whilst at the same time reducing our costs and reliance on the national grid. Thank you to all who gave so generously so that we could make this project a reality”.

The impressive installation features over 730 555-Watt Bi Facial solar panels and an advanced inverter and battery system. A special guest at the ribbon cutting was former Kingswood College Bursar, Mrs Soné Griesel who was instrumental in her tenure in ensuring the system’s success. It was a significant occasion where her efforts on the project were recognised along with those of Mr Jonty Fincham (OK 1990) and Mr Geoff Kingwill (OK 1979) through their positions on Kingswood’s Council.

Geoff, Kingswood College Councillor for Estates and Buildings, elaborated on the project’s motivations and benefits: “The Solar project was started as a way of making Kingswood more resilient in terms of power and keeping the lights on with the intermittent grid supply we have become accustomed to. In addition, it is also our contribution as a College to combating climate change, teaching our pupils about global citizenship.”

Geoff also highlighted the financial advantages of the project, stating, “I am confident that the solar project will result in financial savings for Kingswood in the long run, as the cost of grid power is likely to increase at a rate that is considerably higher than inflation. These savings are influenced by how efficiently we use our power during the day, and the system is designed to reduce our usage of power at peak power periods when the grid power is at its most costly.”

The hybrid system allows Kingswood to switch between energy sources – solar, battery, generator, and municipality – based on price, energy production, and usage. This flexibility not only ensures an uninterrupted power supply but also promises significant long-term financial savings for the institution.

The Kingswood Maintenance Team, led by Mr Corrie Botha and assisted by Mr Fred Shaw who is head of the electrical team, is excited about the future benefits of the system as well the upgrades to electrical infrastructure that have accompanied the installation. Mr Shaw actively works to improve energy management on campus through a dynamic app and smartly controlled switches over campus. A system he is sure to expand on in future.

The solar plant will power the school’s extensive campus, supporting the technology-driven education of its 670 pupils. It will also provide renewable energy to nearly 349 boarders and many staff residing on campus, resulting in substantial cost savings.

Funding for this ambitious project came from generous donations from Kingswood alumni, parents, and the Kingswood College Centenary Trust for which the College is incredibly grateful.

The Centenary Trust is one of Kingswood’s two endowments, and its role is to ensure the future security of our historic campus. It is the legacy of all Kingswoodians – past, present and future – and will ensure that at times such as these, Kingswood will always be able to adapt, and thrive.

As Kingswood College reflects on its rich history in 2024, this solar initiative represents a bold step into the future. It aligns with the school’s overarching goal to “Educate for Life,” equipping our pupils with the understanding, skills, and global awareness needed to contribute positively to a changing world.

The completion of this solar plant not only secures a stable power supply for Kingswood College but also sets a sterling example of environmental stewardship in the education sector. As schools worldwide grapple with sustainability challenges, Kingswood College is proud to be in a position to embrace renewable energy, preparing its pupils for a greener future.

For donations to the project please contact Mrs Megan Erasmus in the Kingswood Foundation Office.