Sector · Education
Solar for schools that actually delivers.
Salix-funded solar, heat pumps and EV charging for primaries, secondaries, MATs and FE colleges. Educational monitoring built in — the kids end up explaining it back to you.
Why Schools Are Ideal for Solar
Educational institutions have unique characteristics that make renewable energy particularly valuable.
Budget Savings
Schools face constant budget pressure. Solar can reduce electricity bills by 40-60%, freeing funds for educational resources rather than energy costs.
Educational Value
Solar installations become living classrooms for STEM subjects. Display screens showing real-time generation engage students in sustainability and energy concepts.
Large Roof Areas
Schools typically have substantial flat or pitched roof areas well-suited for solar. Sports halls, main buildings, and classroom blocks all offer installation opportunities.
Salix Funding
State-funded schools can access interest-free Salix Finance loans that pay back from energy savings. Zero net cost to the school budget.
DfE Requirements
The Department for Education is driving sustainability in schools. Solar helps meet decarbonisation targets and sustainability curriculum requirements.
Term-Time Matching
School consumption is highest during daytime term-time hours when solar generates most. Battery storage captures summer holiday generation for autumn use.
Solutions for Education
Rooftop Solar PV
Install solar on classroom blocks, sports halls, and main buildings. Systems from 20kWp for primary schools to 100kWp+ for secondary schools and colleges.
- 40-60% electricity bill reduction
- Salix funding for state schools
- Educational display screens
- 25+ year system life
Battery Storage
Capture summer holiday solar generation for autumn term use. Maximise self-consumption and provide backup power for IT systems and emergency lighting.
- Store summer generation
- Backup power capability
- Peak demand reduction
- Teaching resource for energy storage
Staff EV Charging
Provide EV charging for teachers and staff as a workplace benefit. Charge during school hours using solar-generated electricity for lowest cost.
- Staff benefit and retention
- Workplace Charging Scheme grants
- Solar-powered charging
- Support staff EV adoption
Heat Pumps
Replace ageing gas boilers with efficient heat pumps. Salix funding available for heat pumps at state schools, with significant carbon savings.
- Decarbonise school heating
- Salix funding available
- Future-proof against gas ban
- Improved air quality
Funding for Schools
Multiple funding routes make solar accessible for educational institutions.
Salix Finance
Interest-free loans for state-funded schools that repay from energy savings. Typically 8-year loans with immediate positive cash flow.
For maintained schools, academies, and sixth form colleges.
Condition Improvement Fund
CIF funding can include renewable energy as part of building condition improvements. Combine roof repairs with solar installation for maximum value.
For academies and sixth form colleges.
Capital Budget
Direct investment from school or trust capital budgets delivers the best long-term returns. Enhanced Capital Allowances available for academy trusts.
5-7 year payback, 25+ year returns.
Education-Specific Considerations
Summer Holiday Generation
Schools have low consumption during summer holidays when solar generates most. Battery storage captures this energy, or SEG payments provide income for exports. We model your specific term-time profile to optimise system design.
Safeguarding During Installation
We understand school safeguarding requirements. Installations are typically scheduled during holidays, and all installers are DBS checked. We work with school leadership to minimise any term-time disruption.
Educational Displays
We provide display screens showing real-time solar generation, CO2 savings, and energy data. Perfect for school foyers and science classrooms, making the solar system a teaching resource.
Multi-Site Trusts
Academy trusts with multiple schools can benefit from portfolio approaches, bulk purchasing, and centralised monitoring. We can assess and install across multiple sites efficiently.
School Solar Success Story
50kWp School Solar Installation
A secondary school in St Albans installed a 50kWp solar system, funded through Salix Finance. The school saves £8,000 annually on energy bills, and the installation includes a foyer display screen used in STEM teaching.
Our Accreditations
Ready to Save Money and Educate Students?
Get a free feasibility assessment and discover how solar can benefit your school, college, or university.
Request Free Assessment Call 07944 275171