Duluth Public Schools installs solar panels thanks to student group
DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) — The Duluth Public School District’s office building is now installing solar panels.
Students in the Duluth Climate Club have worked for seven years to advocate and lobby for the addition of solar panels.
The result of their work is solar panels that increase sustainability and bring educational opportunities to students.
Even during financial setbacks, students in the Climate Club worked to find grants and financial solutions for their school. It not only helped their cause but also showed their determination.
“It was definitely worth it, all the setbacks and everything,” said Duluth Climate Club Co-President Kate Yapel. “Just because I feel like a lot of kids in the group good experience and built up some resilience when faced with some setbacks.”
“I’m really interested in finding more affordable ways that everyone can reduce their carbon footprint or help make their business more sustainable,” said Yapel. “And I just think that sustainability should not have to come down to a cost factor.”
The Climate Club worked alongside the School Board and Superintendent John Magas to find financial solutions, including a $500,000 state grant.
“I’ve really gotten to know these students really well, and I’ve been really inspired by them too,” said Duluth Public Schools Superintendent John Magas. “They are just change agents. They work so hard to make a difference in the world and think about their future.”
While it may take a few years to see the impact of the solar panels financially, Magas said money saved by the solar panels will go back into the school’s resources.
“It helps with sustainability of the planet and our energy, and it helps with sustainability of our resources for our students,” said Magas.
To hear more student voices, the district will also be launching a new effort across all Duluth high schools. Student representatives will be able to meet with Superintendent Magas and advocate for what their schools need.
Click here to download the Northern News Now app or our Northern News Now First Alert weather app.
Copyright 2025 Northern News Now. All rights reserved.