Preet Kaur Gill MP has welcomed the news that 49 schools and 6 NHS sites across the West Midlands are to receive funding from Great British Energy to fit solar panels, saving thousands of pounds on their energy bills. 

The programme marks the first major project for the Labour Government’s publicly-owned energy company – Great British Energy. 

Estimates suggest that the average school could save up to £25,000 on their bills thanks to the scheme. It’s estimated that the investment in NHS solar panels will save local hospitals across the West Midlands thousands of pounds on their energy bills over their lifetime. 

As a result of the Conservatives’ failure to secure Britain’s energy independence, schools and hospitals have been hit with sky-high energy bills due to the UK’s dependency on fossil fuel markets. The NHS’ annual energy bill has doubled to £1.4bn a year since 2019.

In addition to this new project, the Government has announced that £12m will be put aside for local authorities and community energy groups to build local clean energy projects – including onshore wind turbines, rooftop solar panels and hydropower. 

The first panels are expected to be delivered by the end of summer 2025. 

Preet Kaur Gill MP said: 

“This is a fantastic investment for the West Midlands that will see hospitals and schools saving thousands of pounds on their energy bills. 

“Through Great British Energy, Labour is delivering on its Plan for Change by boosting our energy independence, investing in our public services and delivering lower bills for our communities.” 

ENDS 

Notes to editors: