Ohio legislature is proposing a bill requiring about 25 percent of all public schools to install solar panels. Banks or other financial institutions would receive a 35 percent tax cut as an incentive to lend schools the money to fund the panels, and the schools would pay back the loans over a period of 35 years, according to an article in the Dayton Daily News.
The editorial board of The Miami Student thinks schools are the best place to allocate money for green technology because students could gain first hand experience in seeing how solar energy works.
The technology revolution changed education for the current college-age generation. They grew up with computers in the classroom and the Internet as a major tool for research. Technology is second nature to college students, similar to the way this editorial board hopes the green revolution will be to younger generations.
If students are exposed to these technologies while in school, they will gain not only an understanding of new green technologies, but environmental awareness and knowledge that will potentially become an integral part of their life. There will be various job opportunities in green technology, and it will be important for students' future to have an understanding and appreciation for these technologies.
The proposal will also allow schools to be proactive about future energy costs. Ohio relies on coal for 90 percent of its energy, which is unhealthy and not feasible in the long term. Schools are often open from early mornings to late evenings and used as meeting centers for various town events.
Since public schools truly serve as the hub of local communities, keeping electrical costs as low as possible in school buildings will benefit every member of the community.
This editorial board encourages Ohio to make sure banks have enough incentives to invest in the plan to ensure the state can stay competitive in the green revolution. Getting a head start on the green revolution will help Ohio save energy and money.
