Bellmore School District Unveils Solar Panels

Just two years after secured a $250,000 in state funding, the Bellmore School District unveiled its solar panel project at the Star Power Learning Center at Winthrop Avenue School.

This renewable "green energy" technology will help the district lower its energy costs and help save taxpayer dollars.

The solar panels are on the roof of the school just outside the Star Power Learning Center and 25 kW system. This produces comparable to about that of four average home solar electric systems. When school is not in session, this power will be released to the local power grid, supplying energy for the community.

"We're like our own little power plant here," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Famularo. "It's a win-win situation for the community, the district and the students. Children in all three schools will be able to learn about solar energy."

Additionally users will be able to see the Star Power energy savings for each day on the district's Web site. The savings are shown in kilowatts.

"Just as rising energy prices are putting a strain on the family budget, local school districts are being forced to spend more to power their operations, which ultimately costs taxpayers money," Senator Fuschillo said in a press release when the green energy project was funded in 2008. "Using alternative energy sources like solar power, which is clean and renewable, will help reduce energy costs and save money for taxpayers in the Bellmore School District."

Administrators, board members and Senator Fuschillo were treated to songs and a recorder performance by students in the district. Second grade Reinhard teacher Randi Andersen led her students in two songs, Winthrop Avenue teacher Erica Davis lead her third and fourth graders in a recorder concert as three students sang and Laura Laude lead Shore Road fifth and sixth graders in song, with bright yellow streamers as props. Winthrop librarian Marjorie Falabella then had some students to read poems about the Earth and saving energy.