Photovoltaic System 50kWp

The Orthodox Academy of Crete (OAC) and its Department, the Institute of Theology and Ecology (IThE) with respect towards His All-Holiness this Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, who points out that: "The way we respond to the natural environment is directly reflects the way we treat human beings”, has taken the initiative to cover the highest possible percentage of its energy requirements through Renewable Energy Sources (RES).

On August 14, 2017, based on the net-metering legislation, the OAC completed an installation of a Photovoltaic (PV) facility of 50kWp at the roofs of its buildings. This accomplishment is used as a model for every Conference participant, decision maker, stakeholder and student who visits the OAC from all over the world in order to demonstrate a new way of covering our needs by adhering to the principles of sustainability.

The OAC’s PV system succeeds in reducing the annual carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by more than 40 tons and it achieves, at the same time, significant savings from electricity bills, given that this system has a lifetime of 25 years.

Furthermore, the OAC: a) plans an energy efficient renovation, b) replaces conventional lamps with modern low energy consumption LED lamps, c) selects new electrical appliances based on their energy class, d) implements water/energy saving and sustainable mobility policies, e) follows recycling and composting programs and f) encourages visitors, associates and Conference participants to become active supporters and assistants of this sustainable vision, by improving the overall environmental indicators with all our everyday actions.

Everyone who visits the OAC, especially in connection with the OAC’s 50-Year-Jubilee Celebration (1968-2018), will have the chance to reflect on the significance of solar energy and the benefit of becoming as energy-autonomous as possible with respect to the Creation.

Photos from the OAC’s PV installation follow: