Harrow Council is installing solar panels at schools and public buildings across the borough. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions and save money.
The council set a goal at the start of the year to fit solar panels at five council-owned buildings, including schools and community centres. So far, panels have been installed at four sites. These installations enable the buildings to generate 100% renewable electricity.
Grange Primary School is the most recent site to have solar panels installed, with more than 200 fitted on its roof last month. This complements existing air source heat pumps at the school. Other locations with new solar panels include Grimsdyke Primary School, in Hatch End, Milmans Neighbourhood Resource Centre, Bedford House Adult Day Centre, and the council’s headquarters on Forward Drive. Pinner Library is scheduled to have panels installed by March 2025.
Councillor Norman Stevenson, Portfolio Holder for Business, Employment and Property, said: “Solar panels are crucial in our plans to become more sustainable and it’s fantastic that they are being fitted across five buildings this year. Not only does it reduce harmful greenhouse gasses, but has long lasting benefits for the environment, health and the public purse.
“Across all sites, we predict annual savings of nearly £50,000 from day-to-day running costs. This helps us continue to put our residents first by diverting the money saved into the services that matter to them.”
The council’s programme, part of its goal to cut carbon emissions by 2030, will reduce over 40,000 kg of CO2 annually—the equivalent of the annual electricity use of 60 UK homes.
Daniel Kerbel, Headteacher at Grange Primary School, said: “We are delighted to have recently had solar panels installed as part of the Council’s decarbonisation program.
“At Grange Primary School we believe in harnessing the power of education to build a better world future. It’s all part of our core values. We will lead by example and continue to invest in more greener solutions to protect the environment and reduce our carbon emissions.”
In addition to lowering carbon emissions, solar panels help reduce energy bills, require minimal maintenance, and have a lifespan of over 25 years.
The project is one of the council’s 30 flagship actions under its corporate plan, focusing on putting residents first, maintaining a clean and safe borough, and supporting those in need. More details about the council’s Climate & Nature Strategy are available on their website.
Residents interested in installing solar panels or other energy-saving measures can find advice on the Energy Saving Trust website.
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