Schools across Tees Valley are now generating cleaner energy and saving money thanks to the successful completion of a solar energy project.

Solar for Schools has helped schools to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on school buildings, reducing carbon emissions, lowering energy costs and providing valuable educational opportunities for pupils.

The project provided grants of between £10,000 and £20,000 to schools and learning providers across the region.

In total, 10 schools were supported and the project delivered £180,950 in grant funding, which helped unlock a further £718,668.31 in match funding, enabling the installation of more than 2,500 solar panels.

The new systems are expected to save approximately 201 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, helping schools play their part in tackling climate change while supporting the Tees Valley's wider ambitions to become a leader in net zero and clean energy.

The Solar for Schools model enables schools to generate their own renewable electricity while using real-world data and technology to support learning around sustainability, science, technology and climate change.

By investing in renewable energy infrastructure, the programme not only delivers environmental benefits but also helps schools manage energy costs more effectively, freeing up resources that can be reinvested into teaching and learning.

Tees Valley Combined Authority helped schools to work alongside not-for-profit Solar for Schools on the project, with support from delivery partner OASES.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “This project means thousands of solar panels generating clean, cheap electricity on school rooftops right across our region, helping them cut energy costs to invest more into the resources that will benefit local pupils.

“Our schools have a hugely important role to play in helping us connect local young people to new opportunities coming to Teesside, and it’s right that we’re doing all we can to free up cash that will be spent making sure pupils in Teesside have the skills to get stuck into jobs in industries of the future.

“I’m committed to supporting projects like this that deliver real benefits for Teessiders, and thanks to Solar for Schools, we’re investing to help local schools benefit through lower costs.”

Beth Davison, Project Officer, at OASES said: “As the North East delivery partner for Solar for Schools, OASES is proud to help educate children about solar energy and the benefits it brings to their school and local community, building awareness of green energy and inspiring the next generation to embrace a more sustainable future.”

The completion of the Solar for Schools programme marks another important step in Tees Valley's journey towards a low-carbon future, demonstrating how investment in renewable energy can deliver environmental, educational and economic benefits across local communities.