CEST Pioneer in the Installation of Photovoltaic Panels to Promote Environmental Education

During the second half of 2024, the Centro Educativo Salesianos Talca (CEST) installed a total of 230 photovoltaic panels on the roof of its building, each with an output of 550 watts.

These panels independently generate 33 volts, and, depending on the configuration of the circuits, together deliver a total of 850 MW. This breakthrough marks a milestone for CEST, which is committed to fostering a culture of environmental care through environmental education.

Professor Lucas Olave explains that, given the reality of climate change and the urgent need to reduce the carbon footprint, this project was born with the goal of contributing to the educational field and generating a social impact in the region. With this initiative, CEST becomes the first educational institution in the province to install a photovoltaic injection system.

This project not only promotes environmental education but is also integrated as a curricular initiative, as it has a direct impact on student learning. “When we presented the project, we also developed a plan and program for the principals, focusing on renewable energy and energy efficiency modules. These modules were implemented in 2024 and, after receiving a positive evaluation, were presented to the Ministry of Education. As a result, we began teaching this module to students majoring in electricity last year. This technical impact is of great relevance both educationally and culturally for our students,” Olave noted.

The photovoltaic panels installed on the roof of the CEST South Campus have been operating since January 2025. They are connected to an inverter that converts direct current into alternating current, suitable for domestic and industrial use. The system is on-grid, meaning it is connected to the electrical grid and does not rely on batteries. Although it does not store energy, while it is in operation, it will cover a large part of CEST's energy needs.

Professor Olave emphasized that this project, a pioneer in the province of Talca, has an environmental impact comparable to "planting 800 trees for each CEST member," he concluded.