Solar scheme helps power Tees Valley schools

Schools across Tees Valley are generating cleaner energy and reducing costs after the completion of a major solar installation programme.

The Solar for Schools initiative has supported ten schools and learning providers to install rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, helping cut carbon emissions while reducing energy bills.

The project awarded grants of between £10,000 and £20,000, with £180,950 in funding helping unlock a further £718,668in match funding to install more than 2500 solar panels across the region.

The new systems are expected to reduce carbon emissions by around 201 tonnes of CO₂, supporting Tees Valley’s ambitions to become a leader in net-zero and clean energy.

Alongside environmental and financial benefits, the solar technology will provide pupils with opportunities to learn about renewable energy, sustainability and climate change using real-world data.

The programme was delivered by Solar for Schools, with support from Tees Valley Combined Authority and delivery partner OASES, helping schools invest in renewable energy while freeing up resources that can be reinvested into teaching and learning.

Beth Davison, project officer at OASES said: “As the North East delivery partner for Solar for Schools, OASES is proud to help educate children about solar energy and the benefits it brings to their school and local community, building awareness of green energy and inspiring the next generation to embrace a more sustainable future.”

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “This project means thousands of solar panels generating clean, cheap electricity on school rooftops right across our region, helping them cut energy costs to invest more into the resources that will benefit local pupils.

“Our schools have a hugely important role to play in helping us connect local young people to new opportunities coming to Teesside, and it’s right that we’re doing all we can to free up cash that will be spent making sure pupils in Teesside have the skills to get stuck into jobs in industries of the future.

“I’m committed to supporting projects like this that deliver real benefits for Teessiders, and thanks to Solar for Schools, we’re investing to help local schools benefit through lower costs.”

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