The first school to benefit from program was the Torquay State School in Hervey Bay, which received the first of 12 US$19,000 photovoltaic systems that will installed in across state. Eleven other schools in Kingaroy, Gladstone, Bowen, Chinchilla, Maryborough, Bundaberg, Miles, Mackay, Thuringowa, Barcaldine and Emerald will also stand to benefit from a system that will help the environment and improve operational costs.

According to Wells, "Each school will benefit from reduced electricity costs as well as contribute to a better environment through the reduction of around 3.5 tonnes of gas emissions. Students will also gain from hands-on learning experiences and contribute to a greater community awareness of the benefits of alternative energies."

Well's sentiment is shared by Andrew McNamara, the member for Hervey Bay, who welcomed the state government and Ergon Energy initiative. "[It will] provide local schools with solar power, save them money, and teach students about protecting their natural environment," said McNamara.

"While the children learn about renewable energy as part of their schooling they are also getting hands-on experience using the solar-energy technology," he added.

To Kate Skilleter, Ergon Energy Group General Manager Retail, she was pleased that the company - already one of Australia's leaders in "green energy" - could "support local communities in providing a better environment for future generations".

According to Skilleter, "The system will generate around 15 percent of the school's power, saving the school up to US$380 every year. It generates about 10 kilowatt hours of electricity a day through renewable energy sources which means the school is doing its part for the health of its local environment."

"This program is great for all involved and Ergon Energy is proud to support the environment," added Skilleter.