Issue - items at meetings - Solar Panels in Schools

Report of the Executive Director of Children’s Services

53.1    The Committee considered the report of the Executive Director for Children’s Services in relation to solar panels in schools, which was introduced by the Head of Education Planning and Contracts. The report updated the Committee on solar panel installations in the school building portfolio and outlined how the ring-fenced capital budget would be used over the course of the year.

53.2      Alex Boyle asked whether it was cheaper to buy multiple panels, and was advised that the Energy Team within the Council was well placed to negotiate with suppliers to get the best possible price. Councillor Simson asked whether Children’s Services were working with other departments, such as Housing to get better deals. The Chair said that the Energy Team was working with all departments within the Council.

53.3       Martin Jones asked if funding from the Solar Schools project was also being used. The Head of Education Planning and Contracts said that that project was a source of grants which schools could bid for, and that complimented the funding from the Council.

53.4      Councillor Littman thanked officers for the report and was very pleased with the success of the scheme, particularly at St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School.

53.5      RESOLVED: That the Committee noted the report.