Solar PV and wind are ideally suited to schools because as well as the obvious environmental benefits, there are also educational benefits. It provides a great opportunity to raise an awareness of environmental issues with the next generation and links into many areas of the National Curriculum.
Ardenham Energy will install a display unit to show the current output of the system, the cumulative generation since the system was installed and the associated carbon dioxide savings.
Why go Solar?
Ardenham Energy covers the full spectrum of renewable technologies but we generally find that solar photo-voltaic panels are the most appropriate renewable solution for schools. Here are some of the technical benefits:
- Solar PV is easy to retro-fit to existing buildings.
- No groundworks are required.
- There is no disruption to existing services
- Planning permission is not normally required.
- Silent operation.
- No maintenance requirements
- Cost effective CO2 savings.
What are the benefits?
As well as the obvious benefit of reducing carbon emissions, by going solar your school will also:
- Save money on electricity bills – and as schools are closed during the summer holidays when your system will be generating the most power, you can sell this back to the national grid.
- Raise awareness of environmental issues and the challenges of sustainable living amongst your students. Ardenham Energy will provide you with a display showing the real time performance of your solar system.
- Introduce a variety of environmental topics into the National Curriculum, providing a much more creative learning environment for all pupils.
- Have a head start in working towards Eco School status – the Government wants every school to be a sustainable school by 2020 and the Secretary of State for Education has set out challenging long-term aspirations for schools to incorporate learning about sustainable development issues and practices into everyday school life. To find out more about the Eco Schools programme click here
How Solar PV works
Solar photovoltaic (PV) uses energy from the sun to create electricity to run appliances and lighting. PV requires only daylight - not direct sunlight - to generate electricity.
Photovoltaic systems use cells to convert solar radiation into electricity. The PV cell consists of one or two layers of a semi conducting material, usually silicon. When light shines on the cell it creates an electric field across the layers, causing electricity to flow. The greater the intensity of the light, the greater the flow of electricity.
What do we need to do next?
1. Ensure your school is suitable for Photovoltaic panels:
• Do you have a large expanse (10 m2 or more) of south (ideally) south-east, or south-west facing roof?
• Is the roof free of shading from any nearby buildings or trees?
• Is the roof easily accessible?
• Ideally the roof should be on the same building as the one containing your electrical consumer unit.
2. Check with your Local Authority whether you will require planning permission.
3. Contact Ardenham Energy on 01296 331362 or email us at info@rdenhamsolarenergy.co.uk to arrange a site survey.
