Renewable Energy
Hounsdown has recently installed a 6kW wind turbine, to generate electricity for the site, and Solar Thermal heating for its swimming pool as part of its commitment to carbon reduction.
These two renewable technologies follow on from the installation of Solar PV panels two years ago.
Hounsdown were successful in securing grants for the full cost of the project through the Low Carbon Building Programme and Lottery Funded Community Sustainable Energy Programme.
Using the Sun's energy to Heat our Pool
Twenty flat plate panels were installed on the drama block roof over the summer holidays and these are now being used to heat the water in our swimming pool. Water is pumped up to the plates where it is heated by the sun and is then used to keep the pool at a nice cosy 30oC.
During the summer months the majority of the pools heating will be done by solar panels but even during the winter months when the sun shines the panels heat the water and are reducing our gas bills. It is hoped that about 70% of the annual heating will be achieved with the panels. This significantly reduces the costs of heating the pool and is reducing our carbon emissions. We are able to monitor the amount of energy produced so in a years time will be able to see exactly how much has been saved.
Our Wind Turbine
Our wind turbine was finally installed in the October half term. It has taken nearly 2 years from the start of the project to installation. Dedicated members of the Eco Schools and EDIT team braved the cold and mud to watch the turbine being winched up.
With the technologies installed pupils are able to use real time data collected on site to learn about how renewable energy technologies can help combat climate change. These technologies are being used to enrich the curriculum across many subjects.
The next phase of the project is to share information gathered with the community. A group of Year 10 pupils make up the EDIT team who are developing their leadership skills by producing resources for our partner schools. Amongst other things, they are planning to develop an energy trail around school with information boards, interactive displays and screens displaying live data for primary schools to follow.