Norwell DSS installs solar powered charging station in the school’s Nature Nook
September 18, 2017
PALMERSTON, Ontario – An innovative new feature at Norwell District Secondary School is teaching students about renewable energy, while helping to conserve the amount of energy being used at the high school.
Over the summer, the school installed a solar cell charging station. Minto’s Topline Power Systems designed and installed the system, which features a mini solar array on the roof that powers a charging station inside the school.
Norwell DSS has been a Gold EcoSchool for three years running, and the idea for the solar powered charging station aligns closely with the school’s commitment to the environment.
Principal Paul Richard stressed the importance of having teachable moments throughout the school, including in spaces like hallways and common areas. The charging station is a fantastic way to help students understand how energy works, while making them an active participant in it, he said.
Norwell DSS Principal Paul Richard charges his phone at the school’s solar panel charging station (September 2017).
Kids often sit in the hallways at lunch or on spare with their phones plugged into the school’s electrical outlets, Richard explained. The project draws attention to the fact that the energy that comes from those plugs isn’t an unlimited resource.
The station itself is located in an area of the school dubbed Norwell’s Nature Nook. The area also features a living wall with plants growing, benches to sit on and a big beautiful window.
Any student can use the charging station at lunch or on their spares, and so far it has been very popular. Science departments are also using the space to teach their classes about solar energy.
Richard hopes to install additional charging stations throughout the school in the future, including in the school cafeteria.
Norwell DSS students charge their phones at the school’s new solar panel charging station (September 2017).
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