Green Power Solar Schools - designed to encourage interest in the environment and demonstrate the feasibility and limitations of renewable power generation.

Preparing and inspiring our young people to be successful adults in a changing world is a challenge for all of us. As the 21st century unfolds, our young students face many challenges and opportunities, especially regarding energy and the environment.

A partnership between Santee Cooper and the Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina who market Green Power. Nineteen of the 20 Electric Cooperatives in South Carolina are offering Green Power to their customers.

Green Power Solar Schools was launched in 2006 at Hilton Head Middle School served by Palmetto Electric Cooperative. The program continues the Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina’s and Santee Cooper's efforts to promote renewable energy, and fulfill Santee Cooper’s commitment to reinvest Green Power funds back into renewable resources across South Carolina.

The solar school installations will cross the state in phases, beginning with five pilot project schools through 2008 and continuing with thirteen more for a total of 18 schools across the state in 2010.

Santee Cooper installs a 2 kilowatt solar power system at select middle schools. The solar cell provides a teaching, research and hands-on demonstration opportunity for 6th grade students. Teachers and students use a specially designed renewable energy curriculum that meets South Carolina Department of Education science standards. The school also receives a computer with an Internet based monitoring system. Students can see how much electricity is being made from their cells and they can look at other solar schools across the state and country.

View our Solar Schools and their real time data: