A major investment supported by North Lincolnshire Council has helped St Bernadette’s Catholic Primary Voluntary Academy install 96 solar panels, creating a 40kWh system that will significantly cut energy costs and improve efficiency.
The project was delivered through North Lincolnshire Community Energy, a council-backed initiative designed to help schools and public buildings reduce their energy bills and become more self-sufficient. The system is expected to save the school thousands of pounds each year, with long-term benefits for both budgets and building performance.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We are keeping our promise to support our schools through the continual increase in energy costs. Through North Lincolnshire Community Energy, we’re helping reduce running costs, improve energy efficiency, and make public buildings more resilient. It’s about delivering real value for money, whilst at the same time supporting our children to receive more of the money allocated to the school.”
Dave Burrough, director of estates and facilities at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Multi-Academy Trust, added: “St Bernadette’s is now part of a growing network of schools benefiting from lower energy bills and greater control over their energy use. It’s a practical step that supports both financial and operational goals.”
Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for environment and strategy, said: “North Lincolnshire Community Energy is a great example of how the council is investing in smarter infrastructure. These projects are delivering measurable savings and helping schools operate more efficiently.”
To learn more about North Lincolnshire Community Energy and its work across the region, visit www.nlce.coop.