Empowering Solar Schools with Battery Storage

Across the UK, over 130 schools have embraced the shift towards battery storage solutions in conjunction with solar power systems. This transition aims to maximise energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance resilience within school communities.

The move towards battery storage is largely influenced by various government schemes and the declining profitability of exporting solar energy due to feed-in tariffs. By incorporating batteries, schools can now store excess solar energy for later use rather than selling it back to the grid.

School-Based Virtual Power Plants

Several programmes are actively supporting schools in integrating solar panels and batteries to create Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). These VPPs are designed to lower energy costs, decrease emissions, and provide grid stability.

In New South Wales, the Smart Energy Schools Pilot Project has facilitated the installation of 17 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity and 4.6 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage in 79 schools. The majority of these schools operate under a VPP, collectively saving 3,227 tonnes of CO2 and £800,500 annually.

Back-Up and Resilience Batteries

In areas prone to disasters or with unreliable grid connections, some schools are opting for back-up batteries to ensure continuous power supply during outages.

For example, Healesville High School installed 152 kWh of battery storage alongside 50 kW of solar to maintain essential services during grid failures, crucial in bushfire-prone regions like the Yarra Valley.

Off-Grid Alternatives

While VPPs and back-up systems are popular choices, some schools are considering going completely off-grid in certain locations.

Atlantis Beach Baptist College in Two Rocks, Western Australia, opted to install a 30 kWh battery and 20 kW of solar instead of connecting to the local grid, saving significant costs. This off-grid system has successfully powered the school since 2017.

As the energy landscape evolves, schools nationwide are seizing the opportunity to incorporate battery storage solutions. Whether through government initiatives, VPP participation, or exploring complete off-grid options, schools have a range of avenues to embrace this new era of energy efficiency. The rise of school batteries signifies a progressive shift towards sustainable energy practices.