Great British Energy to cut energy bills for schools and hospitals

Hundreds of schools and NHS sites across the UK will see their energy bills reduced, thanks to Great British Energy’s first major project. The government-backed company will invest £200 million to install rooftop solar panels on around 200 schools and 200 NHS sites, cutting costs and boosting renewable energy.

Lower bills, more investment in public services

The initiative is part of the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to fix public services and support the transition to clean energy. Schools and NHS trusts have faced soaring energy costs in recent years, with the NHS alone spending around £1.4 billion annually on energy. This project could deliver savings of up to £400 million over the next 30 years, allowing funds to be reinvested into frontline services.

Schools could save up to £25,000 per year, while NHS sites may see savings of up to £45,000 annually. The first solar panels are expected to be installed by the end of summer 2025, meaning schools will benefit from lower energy bills in the next academic year.

Supporting local communities and clean energy growth

In addition to supporting schools and hospitals, Great British Energy will invest nearly £12 million to help local authorities and community energy groups develop clean energy projects. This funding will support community-led initiatives such as onshore wind, rooftop solar, and hydropower, helping to lower bills and create local reinvestment opportunities. A further £9.3 million will be allocated to projects in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband emphasised the project’s impact, stating:

“Money that should be spent on education and healthcare is instead being wasted on high energy bills. Great British Energy will help cut these costs and provide power for pupils and patients.”

A step towards energy security

Currently, only around 20% of schools and less than 10% of hospitals have solar panels. However, past projects have shown significant savings. For example, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust installed a solar canopy, reducing carbon emissions by 43.7 tonnes per year and saving £75,000 annually. Meanwhile, Hull University Teaching Hospital saved £250,000 a month last summer with its solar installation.

This project marks the beginning of Great British Energy’s efforts to invest in local and national clean power. Backed by £8.3 billion, the company will support both small-scale community energy projects and large-scale renewable developments to strengthen the UK’s energy security.