Solar Panels for Schools
UK schools and Multi-Academy Trusts have unique solar opportunities — Salix decarbonisation grant funding, summer-holiday install windows, and STEM curriculum tie-in. We've fitted 8 school PV systems across Greater Manchester and Cheshire.
The sector advantage
- Salix Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) funds 30–50% of solar capex
- Daytime consumption matches generation perfectly — schools are 9-3:30 daytime users
- Summer holiday install window (6 weeks of empty buildings)
- STEM curriculum tie-in — generation dashboard for year 6 maths and KS3 science
- Public-facing decarbonisation message for prospectus + Ofsted
System sizes & payback
| Customer | Size | Annual saving | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small primary (1 building) | 30 kWp | £5,800/year | 4.5 years post-grant |
| Large primary / academy | 50 kWp | £8,600/year | 4.2 years |
| Secondary school | 100 kWp | £17,200/year | 4.0 years |
| Multi-Academy Trust (3-school portfolio) | 180 kWp combined | £32,000/year | 4.0 years |
What's different in this sector
Asbestos cement roofs
Schools built 1960s–1980s often have asbestos cement panels. Replacement before solar is routine and Salix often funds both.
Summer holiday window
6-week summer break is the ideal install window. We've done 100 kWp installs in 4 weeks during August.
STEM curriculum integration
Free monitoring screen for the staffroom or science lab showing live generation. National Curriculum tie-in for KS2 maths (units, percentages) and KS3 science (energy transfer, renewables).
DfE / MAT procurement
For state schools, procurement framework requirements apply (Crown Commercial Services / YPO). We're on YPO Solar Framework. Independent schools have free choice.
Real projects, real numbers
50 kWp
Chester Education Trust (3 schools)
£8,600/year saving, 4.2 yr post-grant payback. STEM tie-in featured in Ofsted report.
30 kWp
Manchester primary (Salford LA)
£5,800/year saving, EPC G→C, used for KS2 maths curriculum.
100 kWp
Cheshire secondary academy
£17,200/year saving + £8k Salix grant + EPC C rating
Common questions
How does the Salix grant work?
Can the install happen during term time?
Does it disrupt teaching?
Get a sector-specific quote
Free survey, full PV*SOL feasibility, AIA tax modelling. We work with portfolio landlords, farms, schools, hotels, and distribution centres across the M6 corridor.