by Krystal Paco

Guam - In anticipation for a hike in rates, Bill 74 could mean a cheaper power bill for the Department of Education. The bill, authored by Speaker Judi Won Pat and Senators Aline Yamashita and Tina Muna Barnes, aims to authorize doe to enter into a public-private renewable energy purchase agreement with a qualified provider.

DOE superintendent Jon Fernandez welcomes such legislation as currently DOE rakes-in a $1.2 million power bill monthly - the second-highest power guzzler on island following the Guam International Airport. "I'd be interested in ways to reduce our energy costs and to find more renewable energy alternatives and solutions for our schools. We met earlier this week with representatives from GPA to think about how we might move forward with introducing maybe solar panels to our schools as one effort," he said.

Fernandez says installation of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, is also an educational opportunity for students.