Tregony School in Truro has become the first school to receive a solar power system from British Gas as winner of the company’s MySolar School competition. The school, which is one of 750 UK schools to benefit from the £15 million giveaway, has won over £30,000 worth of Sharp solar panels, which are being installed this week.
The school’s array of 100 solar panels makes it the largest scheme of its kind in Cornwall. British Gas is donating and installing solar panels – worth between £20,000 and £40,000 per school. The competition is also backed by TV presenter and celebrity mum, Kate Garraway.
Mark Weir, Headteacher at Tregony School said, “We’re delighted that our school has won solar panels through the MySolar School competition. Having the panels installed will enable pupils to become more aware of the importance of being energy efficient. We also hope that they will help make the wider community understand the benefits of solar panels.
“Tregony School is already committed to helping the environment. We recycle regularly and we also grow our own vegetables and flowers that are sold in shops throughout the community. The solar panels will not only help our school save money but will enable us to take a more long-term approach to energy efficiency, informing and educating both pupils and parents in the process.”
Jon Kimber, Managing Director of British Gas New Energy, British Gas said, “This is the biggest investment of it’s kind in solar technology for our nation’s schools, which will help Tregony School lead the way in cutting both it’s carbon emissions and it’s electricity bill – as well as learn about renewable energy in a hands-on way.
“The electricity generated by this school, and other winning schools, will help pay for the scheme to be extended to even more schools throughout the country, which is great news for school leaders, parents and pupils who are all looking for ways to save money during these tough economic times.”
