Panels installed of first five of 35 schools taking part in the Powering Our Schools initiative, generating clean energy, cutting costs and supporting the region’s carbon neutral future.
Five schools in Greater Manchester are already harnessing the power of the sun as part of an ambitious programme from Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA). Photovoltaic panels have been installed at Worthington Primary in Trafford, Longsight Community Primary, St Augustine’s Primary, St Paul’s C of E Primary and Unity Community Primary.
The new rooftop solar array at Worthington Primary in Trafford, photo courtesy of GMCA
A further 30 schools will follow as the scheme is rolled out more widely. Between them, the 35 schools taking part will produce some 200,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year – roughly equivalent to what’s need to power 75 homes. In the process, the schools will save a combined total of some £40,000 on energy bills and the equivalent of 40 tonnes of carbon.
This is all part of the city-region’s wider commitment to be carbon neutral by 2038, alongside efforts to transition to clean, green energy, cut emissions, reduce waste and protect future generations.
As well as saving schools money, the programme also helps to teach children about science, technology and climate change in action.
Design and installation work is being carried out by NPS Solar, a company based in Greater Manchester. Barker Associates, the integrated property consultancy, is acting as technical advisor to the programme.
All participating schools receive high-quality solar installations from trusted suppliers, with centralised support from GMCA to ensure the process runs smoothly. Schools also gain access to expert advice, shared learning, and support at every stage of the journey.
GMCA is developing a further phase of the Powering Our Schools programme. Schools in the city-region can express their interest by filling out the online form.
Cllr Tom Ross, Leader of Trafford Council and Greater Manchester Lead for Green City Region, says: ‘This programme is a great example of how Greater Manchester can use its scale to make a real difference for both schools and the environment. By installing solar panels, schools are not only saving thousands of pounds a year on their energy bills, they are also showing pupils the importance of taking action on climate change. It’s about creating a greener future while giving our schools more security and resilience when it comes to energy.’
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