Introduction
Whitchurch Primary School in Cardiff is one of the largest primary schools in Wales, providing education for 710 pupils aged 3-11. The school comprises a combination of historical and modern buildings, with the original structures dating back to the post-World War II period and a large, contemporary building added later. Recognised as a top-performing institution, the Welsh government has classified it as a ‘green’ school since categorisation began in 2015.
Industry
Education
Technology
Rooftop Solar PV
Location
Cardiff, Wales
Solar Panels Installed
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Annual Generation (kWh)
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Annual CO2 Savings (Tonnes)
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The Motivation
Environmental responsibility is a key priority for Whitchurch Primary School. With an active eco committee and a commitment to transparency in energy usage, the school has long sought ways to reduce its carbon footprint. The substantial annual electricity bill also provided a financial incentive to explore sustainable energy solutions. By implementing renewable energy sources, the school aimed to cut costs while reinforcing its dedication to sustainability.
The Ineco Solution
Bigger School, bigger needs
Recognising the extensive energy demands of Whitchurch Primary School, Ineco Energy proposed a solar installation comprising 177 photovoltaic (PV) panels. The modern building’s expansive roof provided an ideal location for the system. The installation was designed to be a zero-cost investment for the school, taking advantage of available government funding.
Maximising Solar Generation
To maximise energy generation, Ineco Energy designed a bespoke frame to elevate the panels on the shallow roof pitch, ensuring they were mainly positioned southward for maximum efficiency. However, given the schools energy demand, part of the array was situated on the shallow north-facing roof to increase the school’s solar generation. Although the school had an existing small array of five solar panels, their contribution to energy savings was negligible.
Government funding
The newly installed system is expected to generate approximately 47,704 kWh of electricity annually—enough to power 12 homes for a year. This translates to a savings of around £10k per year (using an electricity rate of £0.25/kWh). These financial benefits were made possible through the Salix Energy Efficiency Loan Scheme (SEELS), a government-backed initiative supporting investments in energy-efficient technologies. With no upfront costs, Whitchurch Primary School could transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy while reaping significant long-term financial and environmental rewards.
Saving Energy for Education
The installation of the solar system has significantly reduced the school’s reliance on grid electricity, lowering annual energy costs by 28% and contribution £10k per annum. This has freed up funds that can be redirected towards educational resources and other school improvements.
Powering a Sustainable Future
By embracing renewable energy, Whitchurch Primary School has reinforced its position as a leader in environmental responsibility. The new system not only supports the school’s eco-friendly initiatives but also educates pupils on the importance of sustainability, setting a strong example for future generations.
