Staffordshire schools will get solar panels in £1m project
Solar panels will be fitted at schools as part of a £1 million project to make them more energy efficient.
The work is expected to save around £90,000 of electricity costs a year for the schools.
The schools to benefit are Erasmus Darwin Academy, Chase Terrace Technology College and Holly Grove Primary School in Cannock, Norton Canes High School, Barnfields Primary School and The Grove Primary School & Nursery Unit in Stafford, Alleyne's High School, Stone, Codsall Community High School, Landywood Primary School in Great Wyrley, Westfield Community Primary School in Wombourne and Penkridge Middle School.
The use of renewable energy will cut the council's carbon emissions by up to 7,329 tons over the course of the project.
The panels are being funded by Generation Community Ltd, which has raised the cash through investment from local firms and groups.
Generation Community Ltd, known as a 'community benefit society', has been working with the council to draw up the plans.
It comes as the council also launches schemes using renewable energy and equipment such as modern boilers and improved insulation at sites across the county.
Staffordshire County Councillor, Ben Adams, cabinet member for learning and skills, said: "We've been working hard over the last few years to help reduce energy costs across all council services.
"This project will see schools benefit from free, environmentally friendly electricity, allowing them to invest their funds in other areas that will help enhance education.
"Cutting back on energy usage is not only great news for our schools but also for our council tax-paying residents as we continue to reduce energy bills and cut our CO2 emissions."
Andy Heald, from Generation Community Limited said: "The investment scheme empowers local communities, who can get involved and benefit from the profits of the project." Solar panels have also been installed on county council-run libraries .
