Energy savings set to benefit St Mary’s Catholic College students

St Mary’s Catholic College, Wallasey, has completed a significant programme of renewable energy and efficiency works, designed to reduce energy costs, lower carbon emissions, and support the school’s journey towards a more sustainable future.

The programme included the installation of a new 279 kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system. It is expected to generate more than 246,000 kWh of electricity annually. Based on the school’s current electricity consumption, the system could deliver potential savings of more than £50,000 per year.

Alongside the solar panels, approximately 900 light fittings across the school site have been upgraded to energy-efficient LED lighting. This is predicted to reduce electricity consumption by a further 132,000 kWh per annum. This will generate estimated additional savings of more than £27,000 each year. The lighting upgrade is funded through the wider DfE Net Zero Accelerator Programme.

Together, the projects secured more than £334,000 in grant funding through Great British Energy and the Department for Education’s net zero accelerator programme.

The investment will significantly reduce the school’s energy consumption and carbon emissions while supporting the school’s long-term financial position.

The programme is designed to ensure that savings achieved through reduced energy costs can be reinvested directly into teaching and learning, supporting students, staff and educational outcomes.

Mr Kevin Maddocks, headteacher of St Mary’s Catholic College, said:

“This investment is more than just reducing energy bills, it is about creating a more sustainable future for our school while ensuring we can continue to invest in the education and wellbeing of our students.

“We are grateful for the support provided through the Great British Energy Solar PV Partnership and the Department for Education’s Net Zero Accelerator Programme, which will allow savings generated through these projects to be reinvested directly back into teaching, learning and opportunities for our students.”

St Mary’s Catholic College is a proud member of the Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust.

CEO of the Trust, Mr Andy Moor, commented:

“Sustainability is a key priority for our Trust, and this project shows how we are turning that commitment into real change. By investing in renewable energy and efficiency measures, we are reducing our carbon footprint and strengthening the long-term position of the school.”