OVESCO Modernises a School's Solar PV System, Providing Free Electricity

In an exciting development for sustainable energy in education, OVESCO has successfully upgraded the Solar PV System at Priory School in Lewes. This project ensures that the school will continue to benefit from free electricity while significantly lowering its carbon footprint for many years to come.

At Midsummer, we were delighted to support this fantastic campaign through supplying the the kit and using our product knowledge and software to match panel dimensions required on site.

The initial project, launched in 2012, was the first of its kind on a school in Sussex. OVESCO, a local not-for-profit community energy group, originally installed solar panels on the school's roof, generating clean energy for the past 13 years. However, technical difficulties last winter meant a comprehensive examination of the system was needed.

Working closely with local installers, Galaxy Technical Solutions Ltd, OVESCO determined that replacing the outdated system with a new 35kWp setup from Midsummer would be most beneficial for the school. The installation was completed in the spring, just in time to capitalise on the longer, sunnier days.

Gus Pitfield, Head of Commercial Solar at Midsummer, adds:

"It's always a pleasure working with Frank and the team at OVESCO, they are doing a great job on community PV projects. Midsummer are always happy to support with clever solutions to get projects like this one over the line".

Benefits of Solar Energy for Schools

The financial strain of steep energy bills impacts thousands of schools, diverting funds from essential educational programmes and resources. Solar projects like the one at Priory School help mitigate these costs, allowing schools to allocate more funds towards their primary mission: education. Additionally, these projects play a crucial role in reducing the school's carbon footprint.

Frank Donghi, OVESCO's Technical Project Manager, emphasised the project's impact:

"The Priory School PV system is a great step to offset a portion of the school’s carbon emissions and reduce its energy costs".

Jon Curtis-Brignell, Headteacher at Priory School, highlighted the importance of sustainability:

"Climate change and the environment are at the forefront of our students' concerns. Priory School is proud to be part of pioneering decarbonisation work as we continue to promote sustainability across the school, work to reduce our environmental footprint, and strive towards achieving net zero".

A Greener Future

The upgraded system will save approximately 8 tonnes of carbon per year, which is equivalent to planting around 400 trees. The system is expected to generate free power for over 30 years, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.

About OVESCO

OVESCO is a pioneering community interest company that has been serving the local community in Lewes and surrounding areas since 2007.  Since its beginnings, OVESCO has created numerous community-owned renewable energy projects, generating local investment and saving 3 million tonnes of carbon emissions to date. On a personal level, OVESCO has advised thousands of people on how to save energy in their homes and transition to greener forms of heating.

As a founding member of Community Energy South, OVESCO continues to support and promote community energy initiatives across the South East.