TWO county primary schools have become energy producers after taking advantage of a funding scheme developed by Worcestershire County Council.

The solar photovoltaic (PV) panels installed at Powick CE and Leigh and Bransford primary schools are the first under the Spend-to-Save scheme delivered via the council’s property services team, as well as capital contribution from each school. The free electricity generated by the panels will be used by the schools and any surplus is sold to the National Grid.

Richard Drewett, headteacher of Powick CE Primary School, said: “I am delighted with the installation of our 16-panel solar PV system over half-term.

“The children already help to monitor and manage our energy consumption and will soon be able to see how much we are generating, which should be quite exciting as the weather improves.

“It is a great example of sustainable practice, helping to reduce our carbon footprint and our impact upon the environment and as such, has practical, longterm educational value.

“This means that the impact will not only be good for the environment but will also have a positive impact upon the school’s budget and will pay for itself in time and thereafter produce a clear income.

“I am grateful to the school governors and to the local authority’s property services team for giving their time and support.”

The Spend-to-Save scheme offers interest-free loans to schools and corporate buildings to fund energy-saving measures with no capital investment.