Education

Solar panels produce almost 5% of electricity in the United Kingdom, but solar energy produces relatively little energy in the developing world. The Collaborative Schools Solar Project is a ground-breaking effort put together by Eton’s pupils for circumventing for-profit solar arrays that do not benefit the local communities. The CCSP creates an international network of schools, local policymakers, non-governmental organisations and philanthropists who will work together to fundraise and catalyse behavioural change. The focus for this is around decarbonising energy consumption in schools worldwide that would otherwise be unable to afford a photovoltaic array.

Merritt F was delighted to share that, “The Earth Prize has been a great way to raise awareness of a project that we want to see to fruition – a new model for supporting energy independence for schools in disadvantaged communities, both locally and globally. The application process for this prize has encouraged us to focus on engaging with the local community around the school, as well as how to share the success of the pilot project at three schools so the concept can be rolled out more widely for greater impact.

“We look forward to the final phase, during which we will discuss our project with people experienced in implementing environmental projects – the Earth Prize mentors and ambassadors. We are thrilled and honoured to be able to get their feedback on our project as we finalise our concept.”