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Let's be friendsFree clean energy for schools and colleges ends soon
Quick - apply for free renewable energy equipment for your school or college. Find out how to apply.
Killer arguments to persuade your school or college to apply for the money:
It saves money. Energy bills are rising as fossil fuels run out so renewable energy is the only way forward. Gas and electricity bills are only going one way – up.
It could start making money. Any power not used (particularly during the holidays and at the weekends) will go back into the main electricity grid so others can use it. Your school or college will be paid for all the extra electricity so they could make lots of money.
They can get 100% funding so it’s FREE. There is 50% government grants available until June 2009. And there are is also 50% funding for schools and colleges in England available from the Lottery, but only if you move quickly.
It sets a fantastic example and can win awards. The school or college will have a practical ‘green flag’ they can display to students, parents, staff and the community to show they are going green.
Your school or college could have a wind turbine (or solar panels) too
Image © Casey Francis (CC) flickr.com/cfrancis/
Under the scheme your school or college can get up to 100% of the cost of a wind turbine or solar panel paid for by the Government and the Big Lottery Fund. But the government money is only available until June so you must act quickly.
This is a great way for your school or college to lower its carbon footprint and show the rest of the community how serious you are about climate change and going green.
How?
Find a teacher or staff member to help you
You might have one already helping your P&P group or you might need to find one who is interested in climate change or energy. It could be your caretaker or facilities manager. Talk to them and tell them that free renewable energy is available, but they have to act quickly. Ask them to promote this opportunity to the governors, school management committee, headteacher or principal.
If they do not listen, keep trying. Or speak to another teacher. It might not be the one you would expect so mention it to as many as possible.
Make it clear that the government grant scheme closes in June 2009 and that this is a fantastic opportunity to make your school or college green for free. You only have to get the application in by June so there’ll still be plenty of time to actually build the turbine or panel.
Keep them informed. Offer to present them with information on the scheme (see below) and tell them that there is a professional contact they can talk to about the scheme.
What next?
Read our guide to the government and lottery funding which includes details of what information you need to apply. Then download the application forms for the Low Carbon Buildings Programme and the Community Sustainable Energy Programme (Big Lottery Fund). They look a bit confusing, but when you’re talking to teachers/caretakers you can show them what you’re talking about.
Get in touch with Helena. She’s currently volunteering with People & Planet and is a Renewable Energy advisor. She has helped schools and colleges apply for the funding before, can answer your questions and help you fill in the application forms. Phone (on 07828 250 473) or email Helena.
