NHS And Schools Implement Solar Panels With Government Funding

The NHS and schools are set to benefit from significant energy savings through the installation of solar panels, funded by a £180 million investment from Great British Energy.

This summer, five NHS facilities, including hospitals and ambulance stations, along with three schools, had solar panels installed. An additional eight schools are scheduled to receive their panels in the autumn.

According to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, these installations are projected to save a total of £3.8 million over the 30-year lifespan of the panels. These savings can be reinvested into healthcare services and educational resources.

This initiative is part of a broader government investment announced in March, which allocated £80 million for 200 schools in England and £100 million for nearly 200 NHS sites to install rooftop solar panels. The goal is to help these institutions manage rising energy costs.

Eleven schools have already started saving on their energy bills since switching on their solar panels in June. All participating schools and hospitals are expected to have their solar panels operational by April.

Despite the potential savings, only 20% of schools and 10% of hospitals currently have solar panels. A typical school could save up to £25,000 annually, while NHS sites could see annual savings of £45,000.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband emphasized the benefits of the initiative, stating, “Great British Energy is helping local schools and hospitals save on their energy bills, allowing them to reinvest in essential services and resources.”

“Solar panels are being installed on rooftops and carpark canopies across the country, providing clean, homegrown power for classrooms and operating theatres. This initiative is part of our mission to enhance energy security and reduce costs for public services.”

Chris Gormley, Chief Sustainability Officer at NHS England, added, “With this new funding, we are set to increase solar generation across the NHS by more than 300%, resulting in significant energy bill savings that can be redirected into patient care.”

“These solar panels are projected to save the NHS £8.6 million annually once all projects are completed, amounting to £260 million over their lifespan. This marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and cost-efficient NHS.”