Solar panels for schools and colleges
As schools and colleges in the UK continue to plan how and when they will be able to open up again fully to the students they exist to educate, there will be many demands on their time, attention and budget. The need to ensure everyone’s safety is, of course paramount; however, attention must also be given to sustainable solutions for ensuring a constant supply of energy, cutting operational costs and reducing the organisation’s carbon emissions.
Solar panels for schools offer an effective and low maintenance solution to generating greener energy, as well as enabling any excess produced to be stored for future use. Additionally, having such a visible method of generating solar energy on the premises can act as an inspirational example for students and their families, not to mention an excellent opportunity for learning more about renewable energy and how to care for the world around them.
They can learn about the sophisticated IT, innovative technology and scientific know-how behind the creation of solar PV panels too, linking this to various subjects on the National Curriculum through science, geography and design.
Looking to get solar panels for schools?
UPS Solar provides schools, colleges and universities with a full, turnkey service that covers initial consultation, installation and after-sales support to ensure that your solar panels offer the maximum benefits to you and your colleagues, students and families.
We have built up many years of experience installing photovoltaic panels and solar power storage systems across the country, from our base in Preston, Lancashire. Our panels are built to last for several decades with little to no ongoing maintenance required.
How solar panels can benefit your school
Save money
Your school or college will quickly see savings on your electricity bills and other essentials such as hot water, lighting and heating, which can translate into freeing up funds for other essential areas of operations. You can pay less than 2p per watt, resulting in low tariffs and easier budgeting, plus the system is low maintenance and should not require costly or frequent repairs and upgrades to work properly.
Reduce carbon emissions
Evidence shows that installing solar panels can reduce an organisation’s carbon footprint by cutting the number of greenhouse gases emitted. A medium-sized solar panel system can mitigate several tonnes of greenhouse gases over a single year, as well as help preserve valuable fossil fuels and cut down on air pollution from other forms of energy production.
Easy installation
having the photovoltaic panels installed is straightforward and will not cause disruption to your working day. While it is preferable to schedule the installation outside of term time, if this is not possible, students and teachers can still move about the site and work as normal during the works. The process is quick to complete and benefits from the latest photovoltaic technology and expertise to harness the maximum amount of energy from the sun to power your educational establishment.
Lead by example
Having a percentage of your energy generated by solar PV panels will help your students and their families understand more about how to produce sustainable, renewable energy and the many benefits it brings. You can also count this towards your Green Flag environmental award submission as it demonstrates working proactively towards lowering your carbon footprint, helping to reduce the strain on the National Grid.
Government solar panel schemes 2020/2021
If, like many schools, you are interested in installing solar panels but are concerned about the financial implications, then read on. Various government schemes are available to help with the initial outlay, including the Energy Efficacy Financing (EEF) and Power Purchase Agreement programmes, which can help remove the strain of finding the upfront installation costs.
Once the system is installed and operational, your school or college will quickly experience reduced electricity costs and utility bills that will off-set the initial financial outlay.
Under the terms of a Power Purchase Agreement, schools, academies and other higher education bodies can benefit from free solar panels, that are fitted by qualified installers to enable electricity to be produced that is then sold back to eligible customers at a cheaper rate than the National Grid.
Solar panels grants and subsidies
Additionally, various private financial organisations run funding schemes to allow schools to take advantage of the many benefits that solar power can offer. Again, UPS Solar can talk you through the options available there.
If you are interested in finding out more about the solar panel grants and subsidies currently available from the UK government and from private institutions, please get in touch with UPS to discuss the various financing options.
Ready to speak to our experts?
Is it time for your school, academy, college or university to consider making the switch to solar power for greener energy production and a lower carbon footprint? Call UPS Solar today to arrange your initial, no-obligation consultation with one of our talented team of experts in solar power for schools.
Other Areas We Serve:
Solar PV systems for businesses
FAQs
UPS Solar can install a wide range of solar power PV panels ranging from 2KW to 6kW solar PV systems with and without battery solutions.
Solar panels can be installed at any time of the year. Some homeowners prefer installing during spring or summer when there is more sunlight, but installations during other seasons are common as well.
The installation timeline depends on various factors, including the size of the system and the complexity of the installation. On average, residential solar panel installations can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Yes, solar panels can be installed during the winter months. Modern solar technology is designed to function efficiently in cold temperatures, and installation can take place as long as weather conditions permit safe work.
While solar panels are low-maintenance, periodic checks are recommended to ensure optimal performance. UPS Solar provides maintenance services to keep your solar panel system running efficiently.
Solar panels are becoming more efficient and affordable, investing in solar panels for your home makes financial and environmental sense. High electricity rates make solar panels cost-effective, and incentives like tax credits can cut upfront expenses. Solar panels boost home value and promote sustainability by reducing reliance on traditional energy.
Solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. During this period, they generally maintain at least 80% of their initial power output. The longevity can be influenced by factors such as manufacturing quality, environmental conditions, and maintenance.
Solar panels can be damaged by various factors. Common causes include extreme weather conditions like hail, strong winds, or heavy snow. Environmental factors such as bird droppings, dirt, and debris can also impact performance. Physical damage during installation or maintenance is another risk. Additionally, electrical issues like overvoltage or lightning strikes can harm the panels. Regular inspections, prompt maintenance, and installing protective measures, such as anti-reflective coatings or bird deterrents, can mitigate these risks and ensure the longevity of your solar panel system.
Keeping your solar panels clean is crucial for optimal performance. Dust, dirt, bird droppings, and other debris can accumulate on the panels, reducing their efficiency. Regular cleaning helps maximise sunlight absorption and energy production. In areas with less rainfall, manual cleaning may be necessary, while in rainier regions, natural cleaning can occur.
