Solar Panels for Healthcare & Education: Powering a Net Zero Future

The UK Government and Great British Energy have announced a £200 million investment to install rooftop solar panels across 200 NHS sites and 200 schools. This landmark initiative will cut energy costs, strengthen resilience, and accelerate the public sector’s journey to net zero. Barker is here to help you benefit.

Barker’s Energy & Sustainability team is ready to support NHS Trusts and schools with feasibility, funding and project delivery. Contact us today for a FREE initial consultation. Fill out the form or call 01279 647111

Why This Matters for Healthcare and Education

For healthcare, the NHS is the UK’s largest public sector energy consumer, with annual bills of £1.4 billion—more than double since 2019. Tripling solar PV capacity across the hospital estate will help cut operational costs, strengthen resilience at critical sites, and allow Trusts to reinvest savings into frontline care. The integration of battery storage will further enhance energy security, enabling hospitals to reduce their reliance on the grid during peak times.

For education, the initiative focuses particularly on schools in less privileged areas, ensuring that the benefits of clean energy savings are directed where they are needed most. Solar PV will enable schools to generate a significant portion of their own electricity, reducing bills and creating greater long-term resilience. Beyond the financial relief, the programme also carries an educational benefit, equipping young people with green skills and a deeper understanding of sustainable energy solutions, helping to prepare the clean energy workforce of the future.

If you would like to receive tailored advice on Solar PV for your organisation, fill out the form above or call us on 01279 647111 to speak to our team.

"This investment is an opportunity to embed long-term energy resilience into our critical infrastructure. Having been closely involved in the NZAP, we are proud our work helped shape this programme.”

Tom Deacon, COO and Head of Energy & Sustainability at Barker Associates

“The scale of this programme marks a genuine turning point for the public sector’s transition to clean energy. Barker is committed to helping schools, NHS Trusts, and local authorities take full advantage of this opportunity.”

Robert Gould FRICS, Partner at Barker Associates

Your Trusted Partner

Barker is a leading advisor in public sector energy projects, with a proven track record of delivering large-scale solar PV systems for schools, hospitals, and local authorities.

Hundreds of solar installations delivered – cutting costs and carbon emissions
Partners in the Net Zero Accelerator Programme (NZAP) – our feasibility and pathfinder studies directly informed the Government’s solar investment strategy
Sector specialists – experienced in working with NHS Trusts and education estates, ensuring projects are safe, compliant, and financially sound

Feasibility Assessments

Our team of Chartered Surveyors, Engineers, and Energy Consultants will carry out detailed feasibility studies to assess whether solar PV and battery storage are suitable for your estate. We model the potential energy generation, cost savings, and carbon reductions, giving you a clear financial and technical case for investment.

Funding Applications

We have a proven track record of securing millions of pounds in government funding for public sector clients. Our specialists guide you through the complex application process, ensuring your bid is comprehensive, compliant, and has the highest chance of success.

Design & Implementation

From technical design through to installation, Barker provides end-to-end project management. We work with trusted contractors and procurement frameworks to guarantee quality, value for money, and minimal disruption to your hospital or school operations.

Long-Term Support

Our involvement doesn’t stop once the panels are installed. We offer ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and optimisation services to ensure your system delivers maximum return on investment. With Barker as your partner, you’ll have expert support for the lifetime of your solar PV system.

Take the Next Step Towards Net Zero