Great British Energy: Powering Schools and Hospitals for a Brighter Future
A £200 Million Investment in Clean Energy
Great British Energy, the UK's publicly owned energy company, has unveiled its first major project: a £200 million investment to install rooftop solar panels on approximately 400 schools and hospitals across the country. This ambitious initiative aims to cut energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, and reinvest savings into vital public services.
How Many Schools and Hospitals Will Benefit?
The project will target around 200 schools and 200 NHS sites in England, covering about one-third of NHS trusts. The first solar panels are expected to be installed by the end of summer 2025, providing immediate benefits for the upcoming academic year and beyond.
What Are the Expected Savings?
This solar surge is projected to deliver significant financial benefits:
Schools could save up to £25,000 annually on energy bills
NHS sites could save up to £45,000 per year
Total lifetime savings for schools and the NHS could reach £400 million over 30 years
These savings will be reinvested into frontline services, improving education and healthcare across the country.
Which Areas Will Be Prioritised?
The support will target schools and hospitals in areas of England most in need, with a focus on:
North East
West Midlands
North West
At least 10 schools in each region will be selected, with priority given to buildings suitable for solar panel installation.
How Will This Impact the NHS?
As the single largest public sector energy consumer, the NHS stands to benefit greatly from this initiative:
Current annual energy bill: £1.4 billion (more than doubled since 2019)
Potential for significant cost reduction and energy independence
Example: Hull University Teaching Hospital saved £250,000 per month with 11,000 solar panels
What About Community Energy Projects?
In addition to schools and hospitals, the initiative includes:
£12 million for local authorities and community energy groups
£9.3 million for schemes in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
These funds will support various clean energy projects, including:
Community-led onshore wind
Rooftop solar on public buildings
Hydropower in rivers
How Much Solar Capacity Will Be Added?
The project is expected to deliver between 70MW and 100MW of solar generation capacity across the 400 sites. This significant increase in renewable energy production will contribute to the UK's clean power goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
What Are the Environmental Benefits?
By investing in solar power, Great British Energy is helping to:
Reduce carbon emissions from public sector buildings
Support the UK's transition to clean energy
Contribute to the government's 2030 clean power target
How Will This Create Jobs and Skills?
The project isn't just about energy; it's also an investment in people:
Each cluster of schools will include a further education college
Contractors will promote careers in renewables
Opportunities for work placements, skills bootcamps, and workshops
This approach aims to support growth in the construction and renewables workforce, creating a pipeline of skilled workers for the green economy.
What's Next for Great British Energy?
This rooftop solar initiative is just the beginning for Great British Energy. Backed by £8.3 billion over this Parliament, the company plans to:
Own and invest in clean energy projects across the UK
Support local energy initiatives
Unlock significant investment in major clean energy projects
Revitalise the UK's industrial heartlands with new jobs
How Can You Get Involved?
If you're inspired by Great British Energy's solar initiative and want to explore solar options for your own property, Atlantic Renewables is here to help. Our team of experts specialises in solar PV systems and can guide you through the process of harnessing clean, renewable energy for your home or business. Call us on 0161 207 4044 to learn how you can start benefiting from solar power today!
Get in Touch
If you're looking to get a solar PV system of your own or have questions about how solar could benefit you, please get in touch with Atlantic Renewables. Our experienced engineers would be happy to discuss your energy needs and help you take advantage of the solar revolution. Call us on 0161 207 4044 and start your journey towards energy independence and sustainability today!
