By Scunthorpe schools go green with free solar panel scheme
Schools across Scunthorpe are to receive free solar panels this summer as part of an exciting green initiative.
A scheme coined “ground-breaking” will provide free solar panels for schools across the town thanks to a heathy cash injection issued by the Government.
Schools will be fitted with solar panels, completely free of charge, this summer as the country contiues their mission to reduce carbon emissions.
The move will also “dramatically” reduce schools’ energy bills following the stark increase in electricity and gas prices.
The council stated the initial pilot scheme will be funded with £1.4m of Government cash whilst money from community investors will also be utilised. Then at a later stage, the scheme will be extended to all schools and community buildings in North Lincolnshire.
Cllr Rob Waltham, Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said:
“This is an incredible scheme that will enable schools to future-proof their energy needs – it will bring down bills at a critical time.
“We are working with a number of schools to pilot the project and we are in discussions with many other school leaders about a wider roll-out – the response has been massively enthusiastic across the area.
“The pilot has been made possible thanks to Government cash backing projects designed to help the local economy and reduce carbon emissions – it is another clear example of levelling-up here in North Lincolnshire.”
Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for the environment, added:
“This aligns with our ambitious Green Future plans which are designed to not only reduce our impact on the environment but also help other organisations too.
“It touches every single community, every single business and every single resident and recognises that we all play our part in making our area a cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable and attractive place to live, work and visit.”
Following the projects announcement, the council established a community benefit society named “North Lincolnshire Community Energy.”
“It will run the scheme which sees schools get the solar panels for free and pay the society for the energy they use at heavily reduced rates,” the council stated further.
Profts that may be generated by the society will be invested into additional “green initiatives” across the area.
Cllr Waltham added:
“We are in partnership with Energy 4 All to deliver the community benefit society – that is being run for North Lincolnshire. It also gives people the chance to invest in the green economy and earn a good return.”
In addition to the existing Government cash, and cash from investors, local people will be able to invest in the scheme, starting at “just £100.”
“Their capital is secured and they will receive interest well above current high street offers. For more details on the scheme and to register interest in the community share offer, go to the North Lincolnshire Community Energy website,” the council added.
The first school set to benefit is Frederick Gough School in Bottesford.
