BOARD of Education member Andrew Orsini, who took the lead in implementing the renewable energy system in public schools as BOE chairman, reiterated his commitment to the “green revolution” in the Public School System.
In an interview on Saturday, Orsini, who is seeking reelection, said the installation of solar panels will save PSS millions of dollars in the years to come, and allow more funds to be spent on student learning.
He said the solar panels will also make PSS students “stewards of our environment.”
At present, solar panels have been installed at Marianas High School, Oleai Elementary School, Chalan Kanoa Head Start, Koblerville Elementary School, Francisco Sablan Middle School, Tanapag Middle School, Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School, William S. Reyes Elementary School, San Vicente Elementary School and Hopwood Middle School.
The installation of solar panels at these schools was completed as of Aug. 23, 2022.
Orsini said the contractor is now waiting for the needed parts and the inspection that will be conducted by the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.
He said the full implementation of green energy at all schools is set for March 24, 2023.
On Oct. 7, 2021, Orsini, who was then the BOE chairman, led CNMI and other education officials in a launch ceremony for the PSS solar energy system at MHS.
The contractor is Micronesia Renewable Energy Inc. under a power purchase agreement.
Then-Board of Education Chairman Andrew Orsini delivers his remarks during the launch ceremony for the Public School System’s solar energy system at Marianas High School on Oct. 7, 2021.
Then-Board of Education Chairman Andrew Orsini, center, poses for a photo with Gov. Ralph DLG Torres, right, Lt. Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, center, back row, lawmakers and other education officials during the launch ceremony for the Public School System’s solar energy system at Marianas High School on Oct. 7, 2021.
