Ascham is the first school in New South Wales to sign a renewable corporate Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
Under this agreement with energy retailer Flow Power, the school aims to be powered by at least 90 per cent renewable energy. It will be powered by a combination of wind and solar power in real time, calculated at 30-minute intervals, allowing Ascham School to control and optimise its use of renewable power.
The landmark agreement will see Ascham School become the first school in NSW to enter a deal of this kind, providing them with an expected long-term reduction in costs.
The deal will help Ascham School achieve its ambitious sustainability targets, contribute to a lower carbon economy and reduce overall emissions, as well as offsetting grid electricity consumption.
Ascham School’s Business Manager Candice Heapes said, “Late last year we felt pressured by another provider into accepting significantly higher energy retail prices when our three-year agreement with them ended. This, along with our growing focus on sustainability as part of our strategic plan, spurred us on to look at alternative options and sources of energy.
“At Ascham, the whole school is committed to sustainable actions, so drawing energy from wind and solar farms is a terrific step in greening our future.”
Flow Power first introduced corporate renewable PPAs to the Australian market in 2017 and now counts Olam Orchards, ANCA Machines and Burra Foods as customers.
Managing Director of Flow Power, Matthew van der Linden, said “We’re thrilled to welcome Ascham School as a customer, and applaud their leadership in taking on an agreement of this kind.”
“The education sector is uniquely placed to benefit from Corporate Renewable
PPAs, due to the longevity of its schools and of the PPAs themselves.
“We look forward to collaborating with Ascham School throughout the duration of this agreement to deliver an energy solution that evolves to fit the school’s needs,” Mr Liden said.
