fraction of the money set aside for the programme will be spent in its first year. The rest will be used to build up solar capacity over the next three years.
However, more schools and hospitals are expected to benefit from the programme in the future, with plans to make it easier for organisations to source renewable energy.
The move is part of the government’s commitment to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Chancellor Rishi Sunak said the investment would “deliver cheaper energy for schools and hospitals while reducing emissions and creating new green jobs”.
The initiative comes after research last year found that solar panels could save schools in England and Wales around £170m a year on energy bills.
Image: Remco Guijs