Greater Manchester primary schools to compete to win solar panels

Greater Manchester primary schools to compete to win solar panels

Primary schools across Greater Manchester are being urged to take part in a competition to win solar panels, crowd-funded by Friends of the Earth supporters.

The competition invites pupils to submit creative entries, such as artwork or film, demonstrating why they’d love their school to be powered by solar energy.

The winning school, chosen by public vote at the start of the new year, will receive a solar installation free of charge. The panels will make thousands of pounds every year for the school – meaning more to spend on playgrounds, libraries and trips.

It’s the first time that Friends of the Earth has crowd-funded a renewable energy project. Its new Run on Sun campaign, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, aims to make it easier for schools to benefit through solar power.

Manchester Friends of the Earth lead energy campaigner Ali Abbas said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for schools across Greater Manchester to save thousands of pounds through clean energy, and for young people to learn about solar power. Whether it’s your children’s school or the one you went to years ago, nominate it for the chance to win – and be quick!”