Six Gloucestershire schools will soon harness the power of the sun as part of a £2 million solar panel rollout led by the Gloucestershire County Council. This initiative marks a significant step in the council's commitment to renewable energy and aims to provide schools with cost-saving, cleaner, and greener energy. The project, which aligns with the council's broader environmental goals, is set to unfold in stages from March 2025 to March 2027.
The pilot scheme has already seen successful implementations at six schools: Nailsworth CofE Primary, Harewood Junior in Tuffley, St John's Primary in Cheltenham, Ashchurch Primary in Tewkesbury, Stow-on-the-Wold Primary, and Woolaston Primary in Lydney. Following this initial phase, the rollout will now extend to Castle Hill Primary in Brockworth, Eastington Primary in Churchend, Holy Trinity Primary in Cheltenham, Northleach Primary, Soudley School, and Tredworth Junior in Gloucester. Each of these institutions is expected to save an average of £4,360 on energy bills annually.
Gloucestershire County Council has identified that 85 out of its 100 maintained schools are suitable for the solar panel scheme. This initiative is a cornerstone of the council's strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 and reduce emissions by 80% by 2030. The solar panels are designed to last for two decades with proper maintenance, contributing significantly to the council's ambitious environmental targets.
Gloucestershire County Council leader Stephen Davies emphasized the dual benefits of the scheme: financial savings and educational opportunities.
"Solar panels offer significant energy savings for schools and provide an opportunity for pupils to learn about renewable energy," – Stephen Davies
He further highlighted the council's dedication to sustainable energy practices.
"This is part of our ongoing commitment to solar power in the county, and brings cost-saving, cleaner, greener energy to schools across Gloucestershire." – Stephen Davies
The rollout is not only expected to reduce operational costs for schools but also serves as an educational tool for students. By integrating renewable energy systems into school infrastructure, it provides a practical learning environment about sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.
