The Introduction
Merebrook Infant School is a small but impactful school located in Milton Keynes, with 129 pupils aged between 4 and 7. Despite its size, the school is committed to sustainability and has made significant strides in reducing its environmental footprint.
Industry
Education
Technology
Rooftop Solar PV & LED Lighting
Location
Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire
Solar Panels Installed
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System Size (kWp)
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Annual Generation (kWh)
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Payback Period (Years)
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Equivalent Rate
0.00p / kWh
Annual CO2 Savings (Tonnes)
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The Motivation
Merebrook Infant School has long been dedicated to environmental sustainability, having earned the Bronze Award for its eco-friendly efforts. The school encourages its pupils to take an active role in protecting the planet, with initiatives such as using multiple recycling bins and growing their own fruit and vegetables. They compost all waste generated from these activities, reinforcing their commitment to sustainability. The installation of solar panels was part of the school’s strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and access cleaner energy. Additionally, it provided an opportunity to save money on electricity bills, further supporting the school’s green goals.
The Ineco Solution
Solar Panel Installation
Merebrook Infant School’s relatively modern building features a roof that is well-suited for solar energy generation. After conducting a thorough site audit, a tailored solar PV system was designed and installed. The system, consisting of 109 solar panels, was completed over a weekend, ensuring minimal disruption to the school’s operations. By Monday morning, the school was up and running, with only the scaffolding left to be removed outside of school hours.
DfE Funding Source
The installation was fully funded by the Department for Education-approved Salix Finance, meaning the school did not need to pay any upfront costs. Ineco Energy managed the entire funding process, relieving the school of any administrative workload and ensuring a hassle-free process.
Better Lighting, for Brighter Schools
One year after the installation of the solar panels, Merebrook Infant School decided to further enhance its sustainability efforts. The school contacted Ineco Energy again to discuss an upgrade to energy-efficient LED lighting. A detailed audit was conducted, and a new lighting system was designed that reduced the number of fittings, replacing outdated lighting with more sustainable options, and delivering better lighting throughout the school.
60% Electricity bill savings
Merebrook Infant School has realised significant savings, cutting its electricity bills by approximately 60%. This has also resulted in a reduction of nearly seven tonnes of carbon emissions each year. The new lighting system has enhanced the learning environment, providing brighter classrooms for the pupils. Overall, the school is now more sustainable, cost-effective, and aligned with its eco-friendly values.
