GBE Cuts Energy Bills for Schools & Hospitals: What You Need to Know
Schools and hospitals are facing increasing pressure from rising energy costs, which take valuable resources away from education and healthcare services. High utility bills make it harder to invest in staff, equipment, and essential programs, creating financial strain for institutions that serve the public.
Without action, these costs will continue to rise, making it even more challenging to maintain high-quality services. Energy inefficiency also contributes to environmental concerns, adding to the urgency for sustainable solutions.
This article explores how Great British Energy is stepping in with a major initiative to help schools and hospitals cut energy bills through rooftop solar installations, and with expert support from Bell, institutions can make the most of this opportunity.
GBE Supports Schools and Hospitals with Solar Power
Currently, only 10% of hospitals and 20% of schools are solar powered, but not for long! Great British Energy (GBE), the UK’s new state-owned energy company, has announced a major initiative to reduce energy costs for schools and hospitals.
With an investment of £180 million, GBE aims to install rooftop solar panels on approximately 200 NHS sites and 200 schools across England. This move is designed to lower energy bills, improve energy efficiency, and support the country’s transition to renewable energy. However, another positive of this initiative is that any money saved is going to reinvested into the schools and services. So the environment gets helped, the institutions get helped and the pupils and patients get helped.
The first installations are expected to be completed by the end of summer 2025. By the start of the new school year, many institutions will already be benefiting from reduced energy bills. The investment is part of a broader effort to modernise public sector energy use and ensure long-term operational efficiency.
Key Benefits of the Initiative
The GBE solar rollout will provide several advantages for schools and hospitals, ensuring financial savings and long-term sustainability:
- Lower energy costs: Schools could save up to £25,000 per year on energy bills, while NHS sites may see savings of up to £45,000 annually.
- Financial stability: With energy bills rising, the initiative helps institutions allocate more resources to education and healthcare rather than utilities.
- Environmental impact: Installing solar panels will reduce carbon emissions, helping schools and hospitals meet sustainability targets.
- Energy security: On-site solar generation provides a reliable and renewable source of energy, decreasing reliance on external providers.
Addressing the Energy Crisis in Public Institutions
Schools and hospitals are among the most affected by rising energy costs. The NHS, the UK’s largest public sector energy consumer, has seen its annual energy costs exceed £1.4 billion, more than doubling since 2019. Without intervention, these costs would continue to rise, putting additional pressure on essential services.
By prioritising solar energy, the government aims to offer financial relief and long-term stability to these critical institutions. In fact, it’s estimated that after 30 years, the schools and hospitals granted these solar panels will have saved a maximum of £400 million.
Community Energy Projects
Beyond schools and hospitals, nearly £12 million is being allocated to community energy projects. These initiatives support local authorities and energy groups in launching renewable energy schemes, including wind, solar, and hydropower projects. Over and above this, a further £9.3 million will enable solar power to be installed in public buildings in Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. That puts the total investment from GBE at over £200 million. The goal of these additional investments is to enable communities to benefit directly from clean energy while reinvesting profits into local services.
How Bell Supports Schools and Hospitals with Solar PV
Bell is a trusted expert in retrofitting high-quality solar PV solutions. We ensure that schools and hospitals benefit from cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions that align with the Great British Energy (GBE) initiative.
By partnering with Bell, you gain access to:
- Expert consultation: Our team works closely with you to assess your institution’s solar energy potential, ensuring the best possible solution for your needs.
- Tailored solar solutions: Bell implements custom solar installations that help maximise energy savings, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance long-term sustainability.
- Seamless integration: With extensive experience in solar PV integration, we handle the full process—from initial consultation and system design to installation and ongoing maintenance—ensuring a smooth transition to renewable energy.
- Ongoing support: Our commitment to your success doesn’t end at installation. We provide reliable long-term support to ensure your solar panels operate efficiently and deliver consistent energy savings.
As a proud member of the National Home Decarbonisation Group (NHDG), the winner of the 2025 Retrofit Contractor of the Year Award, and a participant in the Greater London Authority (GLA) Retrofit Accelerator, Bell is dedicated to supporting the UK’s ambitious environmental targets. Our affiliations reflect our leadership in the solar PV and retrofit sectors, ensuring that schools and hospitals can rely on us for expert solutions that contribute to both financial and environmental goals.
The Future of Solar in Public Sector Institutions
This initiative marks a significant step toward a more sustainable and cost-effective energy model for the UK’s public institutions. With expert support from Bell, schools and hospitals can take full advantage of this opportunity to invest in solar PV solutions that provide lasting financial and environmental benefits.
Bell is ready to help institutions navigate the funding process and implement solar solutions that align with their energy needs. Contact us today to learn how we can support your transition to renewable energy.
FAQs About The GBE Solar Initiative
Who is eligible for the Great British Energy solar initiative?
The support will focus on schools and hospitals in areas of England that are most in need, with suitable buildings for solar panels. The government will select schools, mainly in deprived areas in the North East, West Midlands, and North West, with at least 10 schools in each region.
The NHS will identify hospital sites through an expression of interest process, with installations managed by the NHS. Solar panels will be placed on hospital rooftops or mounted in car parks or other areas.
What are the costs involved for schools and hospitals?
The initiative is designed to cover installation costs, significantly reducing or eliminating upfront expenses. However, institutions should confirm any ongoing maintenance or operational costs.
How much can a school or hospital expect to save?
Schools could save up to £25,000 per year, while NHS sites may see savings of up to £45,000 annually, depending on energy usage and solar capacity.
What is the timeline for the installations?
Installations are expected to begin in 2025, with the first solar panels operational by the end of summer. The rollout will continue over time as more institutions are onboarded.
