Woodstock Primary School has installed a large solar PV array on their roof, to reduce electricity costs, address climate change by cutting carbon emissions as well as creating more renewable energy for the local electricity grid.

What did they do?

The Schools Business Manager contacted ACES about the Oxfordshire Schools Efficiency Loan Scheme. After submitting an initial application, they received a conditional loan offer.

Next, the school approached several accredited solar PV contractors for quotes, arranged a structural survey of the roofs where the panels would be installed, and checked if any planning permissions were needed. All necessary documents were submitted to the County Council, and approval was granted. Installation was scheduled during the half-term to avoid disruption.

What was the result?

A total of 191 solar panels were installed, generating about 80,387kWh of clean electricity per year. Of this, 51% will be used directly by the school, resulting in significant savings to their energy bills. 49% of solar power will be exported to the grid, generating additional income for the school. The panels are expected to reduce the school’s carbon footprint by 8.49 tonnes of CO2e per year.

About Woodstock Primary School

Originally built in the 1960s and extended in 2000, Woodstock Primary School now serves over 300 students. The site includes several flat roofs, many of which have recently been refinished, making them ideal for solar panel installation.

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Feeling inspired?

If you’d also like to reduce your energy costs and carbon emissions, you could consider installing rooftop solar panels. Funding is still available through the Oxfordshire Schools Efficiency Loan Scheme. Find out more.