Mary immaculate kiamumbi: Mary Immaculate Kiamumbi Primary School has installed two solar power systems in an initiative expected to reduce electricity costs and improve reliability of power supply at the institution. Kiambu Town Member of Parliament Machua Waithaka said one of the solar systems would serve the entire school, while the second system had been dedicated to powering the school’s borehole.
According to Kenya News Agency, Waithaka said the investment would provide the institution with a more reliable and sustainable source of energy while reducing the financial burden associated with electricity bills. ‘Previously, the school was spending approximately Sh50,000 every month on electricity bills. This investment in solar energy will significantly reduce recurrent energy costs and ensure that more resources are directed towards our learners and other critical needs of the institution,’ said Waithaka.
The legislator stated that the installation is part of a broader strategy to promote the use of renewable energy in schools within the constituency, noting that the initiative would also help institutions cope with rising operational costs. The solar systems are expected to provide a dependable source of power for essential school operations, including lighting and other activities that require electricity, while ensuring that the borehole continues to provide water even when there are interruptions in the conventional power supply.
Waithaka emphasized his office’s commitment to ensuring that more schools benefit from solar power, with the ultimate goal of making schools less dependent on electricity from the national grid. ‘Our intention is to connect all our schools to solar power, providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy while reducing the financial burden of electricity bills,’ he said.
He also mentioned that savings from reduced electricity expenditure would allow schools to channel more resources towards improving learning facilities, supporting learners, and addressing other priority needs. This move aligns with the growing trend among schools and public institutions to explore renewable energy solutions to cut down on operational expenses and promote environmental sustainability.
Waithaka concluded by highlighting that investing in clean energy is not solely about cost reduction but also about preparing schools for a more sustainable future. ‘This is about investing in our schools today while building a more sustainable future for our learners,’ he said. Waithaka, representing Kiambu town Constituency in the National Assembly, has continued to prioritize education and infrastructure development in schools, with education and research listed as his areas of interest by Parliament.
