Saint Catherine’s Academy Goes Solar

Saint Catherine’s Academy (SCA) in Belize City is on its way to becoming the first school in the country to run entirely on solar power.

The milestone is the result of a partnership between SCA, ProSolar Engineering Limited, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The project falls under UNDP’s Climate Promise initiative, which helps developing nations cut emissions and build resilience against climate change.

For SCA Principal Dr. Salome Tillet, the move to solar power is about more than just cutting energy costs, it’s about preparing students to live and lead sustainably.

Dr. Tillet said. “The dream is to one day run all our buildings on solar power. There was a time when it seemed unrealistic because it was so expensive, but through partnerships, we realise it’s possible. It’s already part of our curriculum to look at renewable energy and sustainability, but seeing it in action brings it to life. Our students don’t just learn about it, they live it.”

UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Michael Lund said that initiatives like this are part of a broader push to tackle climate change in Belize. “Our job is to keep the focus on climate change and clean energy every day.”

ProSolar Belize provided and installed the solar system free of charge. Business Coordinator Isaias Valle explained that the system includes ten solar panels and a five-kilowatt battery, with plans for possible expansion. “SCA has plenty of roof space ,it’s the perfect location for more solar panels, and we’re already discussing future collaborations.”