Families call on candidates to pledge to Solar Our Schools

Families are gathering at events around the country this weekend to meet their federal election candidates and call for stronger action on climate change.

Australian Parents for Climate Action (AP4CA) branches have organised fun, positive and family-friendly community climate events over the weekend, from a walk with friends, a playgroup, a family picnic, a play-in out the front of local candidates’ offices, to Climate Coffees.

AP4CA is also asking all federal election candidates to pledge their support for Solar Our Schools, a shovel-ready policy initiative that would see solar panels and batteries installed in schools and early childhood centres around Australia.

So far, 95 candidates spanning all political parties have pledged their support for Solar Our Schools.

“Now we want all remaining candidates to also pledge their support. Australian Parents For Climate Action do not endorse the party or candidate, instead, we celebrate their support for the Solar Our Schools policy,” said Australian Parents for Climate Action’s CEO Nic Seton.

“Parents and the community in general want greater investment in renewable energy, which would provide thousands of jobs as well as reduce emissions.

“To protect a positive way of life for our kids, we must throw everything we have in reserve into advocating for stronger action on climate to all sides of politics.”

“With schools paying more on their energy bills, there will be less to spend on education and our kids. Solar and batteries will help schools save money so more funds can go towards teachers and educational resources,” said Heidi Lee Douglas, Communications and Campaign Director for Australian Parents for Climate Action.

Figures from Beyond Zero Emissions’ Million Jobs Plan shows large schools can save $114,000 in annual energy bills and $12,700 in small schools per year. These savings will only increase as energy prices continue to rise, as the Australian Energy Market Operator is indicating.

To find an event near you, check the AP4CA website here.