Embracing renewable energy technology makes a lot of sense for the public sector and schools as it is in line with Government sustainability goals and provides a financially viable means of achieving carbon savings while offering income potential.  As a statement of social responsibility, it helps promote a green image, developing awareness of climate change and setting a clear example to the wider community.

Among the most consistently suggested renewable technologies are photovoltaics (PV) panels.  These systems generate electricity using just daylight, are simple to install and can be tailored to meet specific requirements.  The PV panels consist of thin layers of a semi-conducting material, usually silicon, which generates an electric charge when exposed to direct sunlight - the greater the intensity of the light, the greater the flow of electricity.

The PV panels are installed on the roof or can be integrated into the building exterior so do not take up valuable internal space. In addition, they provide a low maintenance means of producing energy with a 25-year warranty on the modules and an 40+ year lifetime expectancy.

Importantly, public sector buildings are eligible for the feed-in tariff.  This is providing added impetus to the installation of PVs as it will pay for the electricity generated and exported by a photovoltaic system.  The credit given for the electricity is guaranteed at the same rate for 25 years and will go to the landlord, if installed on flats, schools or similar buildings, thus providing savings and income potential for the system’s lifetime.

PVs are an excellent solution when it comes to meeting the ever-increasing sustainability levels demanded in both new and existing buildings.  Housing associations, in particular, must meet the Code for Sustainable Homes.  Each Code level requires a certain percentage of the building’s CO2 emissions to be decreased using renewable technologies.

In the case of schools, the Building Schools for the Future programme means that the Government would like all schools to be models of energy efficiency and renewable energy by 2020.  Installation of PV system on school buildings is an opportunity to reduce energy bills and secure energy prices while helping to educate and remind our future generations of the benefits of sustainable energy solutions.  Displays can be incorporated within schools, and the common areas of public sector buildings, to show ‘real time’ energy generation and generally raise public awareness of the issues concerning energy consumption and its responsible use.

We are focused on assisting Local Authorities, Schools, Housing Associations, and Hospitals to achieve their energy reduction and sustainability goals, and to help them make use of the feed in tariff available for both electricity generated and exported.

For more information on how PV Solar Panels can benefit the Public Sector ring one of our team or contact us!