Whiteknights primary school has been named as one of the first schools in the country to benefit from cheaper energy bills thanks to Great British Energy’s rooftop solar rollout.
Labour MP for Woodley and Earley, Yuan Yang, welcomed the move which will ensure approximately £4,500 is saved each year on energy bills, meaning more money for resources and teachers.
The school in Wokingham borough is among 11 across the country leading the way with the first wave of Great British Energy solar installations now complete.
The remaining schools set to benefit will be announced this summer, with all 200 schools that are part of the scheme expected to have solar panels installed by the end of the year.
Energy minister Michael Shanks said: “Through our Plan for Change, this government is supporting schools to save schools thousands on their bills so they can reinvest money saved into ensuring every child gets the best start in life.
“The installation of solar panels will also help pupils to develop green skills, promoting careers in renewables and supporting growth in the clean energy workforce.”
Yuan Yang MP added: “I am delighted that Whiteknights Primary School is one of the first projects funded by Great British Energy nationwide.
“This investment will mean the school can save on its energy bills, and spend more on education for the kids there.”
“I’ve really enjoyed meeting primary school children across Earley and Woodley constituency at the assemblies I’ve been giving. Our young children are the country’s future, and they deserve the best facilities.”
“And I know how much schools can save on their energy bills through switching to solar because of the work already done by local groups like Reading Community Energy Society, which this government is building on.”
“Through our publicly owned clean power company Great British Energy, we can bring down bills for good by investing in homegrown energy.”
