Solar PV systems for schools and public sector buildings

Solar PV systems are increasingly being specified for installation on schools and public buildings. The installation of solar PV panels to a school or public building provides a visible statement, an inspiration to others, reliable energy generation, reduction of energy bills and an effective way to address CO2 targets.

Photovoltaic (PV) panels generate electricity from sunlight. Solar PV panels come in various forms and can be integrated directly into the fabric of a building: PV modules can be mounted on roofs or facades; PV roof tiles can directly replace conventional roofing materials; PV glazing laminates can replace ordinary glass in roofs, skylights and facades. Indeed solar PV panels can be incorporated into almost any building or structure. For more technical information see our solar PV pages.

A solar PV system installed on a school roof does more than provide green electricity. It can inspire and educate a new generation. Sundog Energy has developed our planet - an online teaching resource for all key stages. Our planet contains videos, quizzes, lesson plans and practical exercises to help teachers to address climate change, solar PV and other renewable energy systems.

Solar PV and the feed in tariff

The Government’s new feed in tariff is due to start in April 2010. This cash back scheme will pay a premium rate for electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar PV – fixed for up to 25 years. The feed in tariff means that the payback period for solar PV systems has dropped significantly and net income can now be predicted reliably.

Solar PV – a brilliant solution

• Solar PV systems generate free electricity with no carbon emissions.
• Solar PV systems are practicable for most buildings - new build or retro-fit - and result in no loss of usable building space.
• Every unit of PV generated electricity qualifies for payments under the feed in tariff.
• Typical solar PV installations will save several tonnes of CO2 every year.
• PV systems have no moving parts and require no maintenance.
• Solar PV systems are reliable, have a predictable performance (PV modules have performance guarantees of over 25 years) and an expected life of over 40 years
• Climate change, increasing energy costs, and energy security - three good reasons why carbon reduction is now a top priority for schools and local authorities. A solar PV installation provides a simple, effective and reliable means to tackle these challenges.

Sundog Energy is a leading national supplier of renewable energy systems to schools and the public sector. Our reputation and experience was formally acknowledged when Sundog (as co-founder of The Low Carbon Partnership) was selected by the DTi as one of three framework providers UK wide for Phase 2 of the Low Carbon Building programme. Let us provide you with a solar PV system and present positive solutions to the carbon reduction challenge.

Sundog Energy can assess your building for its suitability for a solar PV system and provide options, costings and output data to show what could be achieved - contact us.