The South Korean government has announced a comprehensive plan to expand solar power generation in public elementary and secondary schools by 2030. This initiative, led by the Ministry of Education, is part of the ‘햇빛이음학교’ (Sunlight Connection School) project, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and electricity costs while transforming schools into hubs for climate and ecological transition education. The project responds to rising electricity consumption and costs in schools, positioning educational institutions as leaders in the national energy transition. By integrating solar facilities with educational programs, the government seeks to foster student awareness and practical engagement with carbon neutrality.
The policy directly impacts all public elementary and secondary schools in South Korea, totaling 10,315 institutions. Currently, about 34.6% (3,566 schools) have solar installations, but the new plan will extend coverage to nearly all schools, except for small or aging facilities where installation is not feasible. The 2024 pilot project will equip 400 schools with 50kW solar systems, generating an estimated 68MWh per school annually and saving approximately 10 million KRW in electricity costs per school. The project is also expected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 12,597 tons per year, equivalent to planting 1.91 million pine trees, and stimulate local small business participation.
Implementation begins with a 2024 pilot, funded by a special grant of 43.3 billion KRW for 260 schools, with an additional 140 schools included through separate projects. The Ministry of Education will use its integrated facility information system to monitor solar output and maintenance, while safety measures such as mandatory arc protection devices and annual inspections are introduced. Results from the pilot will inform optimal installation models and guide a comprehensive rollout plan in the second half of 2024. The government will also continue expanding solar facilities in national universities to support broader energy transition goals.
Frequently asked questions include: How will solar panels be integrated into school education? The Ministry will provide experiential facilities, large screens displaying carbon reduction data, and renewable energy teaching materials via the national environmental education portal. What support is available for teachers and schools? Expert consultations, tailored lesson plans, and the development of the ‘K-GEP’ (Korean Ecological Transition Education Framework) will help schools incorporate solar energy into curricula and activities. The Ministry will also offer teacher training, learning communities, and share best practices to ensure stable adoption of solar-based lessons.
Metaqsol opinion: South Korea’s plan to expand solar power in public schools is a forward-thinking policy that addresses both environmental and educational objectives. The Ministry of Education’s use of pilot projects, integrated monitoring systems, and enhanced safety protocols ensures a robust and scalable implementation. By connecting solar installations with climate education and teacher support, the initiative is positioned to create lasting impact on student awareness and practical skills. The involvement of local small businesses further strengthens the policy’s economic and community benefits.