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Solar Panels and Renewable Energy Solutions for Education and Public Facilities

Supporting schools, universities, and public buildings in reducing costs, improving efficiency, and meeting sustainability goals.

How ZLC Energy Supports the Education and Public Sector

We’ve worked with local authorities, universities, schools, and public bodies to deliver practical renewable systems that reduce running costs and carbon emissions. Our approach focuses on technical integrity, value for money, and clear communication at every stage.

Our support includes:

  • Solar PV & Battery Storage – Generate clean electricity on-site to offset high daytime usage and cut costs.
  • Heat Pumps – Replace ageing gas boilers with efficient, low-carbon heating and cooling.
  • Energy Monitoring & Management – Identify waste, optimise use, and track performance across your estate.
  • Funding and Feasibility Support – Guidance through available grants, Salix Finance, and public-sector funding streams.
  • Net-Zero Strategy Development – Long-term planning to meet sustainability targets responsibly and effectively.

We understand the accountability and governance standards of the public sector — and we design systems that perform reliably, with minimal disruption and clear reporting.

Trusted by Leading Organisations Across the UK

Proven Results in Education and Public Buildings

ZLC Energy has delivered projects for schools, colleges, and local authorities across the South West and beyond — helping them reduce energy use and achieve sustainability goals.

  • Exeter University: 8 year framework contract installing solar PV systems to reduces carbon emissions and lower energy bills.
  • University of Essex: 562kWp solar PV system providing over 500,000kWh per year of renewable energy.
  • Kelly College: over 150kWp of solar PV across 3 sites optimised for peak performance.

The Energy Challenges Facing Education and Public Sectors

Schools, universities, and public buildings face growing financial and environmental pressures. Energy costs continue to rise, while government and community expectations demand stronger commitments to carbon reduction and sustainability.

Common challenges include:

  • Rising operational and heating costs across multiple buildings.
  • Meeting local authority and government net-zero targets.
  • Ageing infrastructure and inefficient heating systems.
  • Limited budgets and complex funding structures.
  • Maintaining comfortable, safe environments for students, staff, and the public.

Each organisation is unique, but all share the need for reliable, efficient, and transparent energy solutions that deliver measurable results and long-term savings.

Our Services

We design tailored renewable systems for schools and public buildings. Our engineers will create practical, efficient systems that align with your operational, environmental, and financial objectives, helping you focus resources where they matter most.

Solar

Solar PV installations allow schools and public buildings to generate clean energy directly on-site, lowering running costs and cutting carbon. With predictable generation and low maintenance, solar is one of the most effective technologies for publicly funded organisations.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps provide efficient heating and cooling while dramatically reducing carbon emissions. Whether replacing ageing gas boilers or supporting district energy systems, they deliver comfort and reliability year-round.

Car Ports & EV Charging

Where roof space is limited, solar carports can provide the same clean energy benefits while offering sheltered parking or outdoor areas, an efficient dual-use solution for schools and public sites. Support the transition to electric transport by providing charging infrastructure for staff, fleets, and the community, future-proofing your site for changing needs.

Our Commitment to Quality, Ethics and Safety

Dedicated project manager

All our customers have dedicated account managers that oversee every step of the commercial and production process.

Certified quality standards

Industry-recognised accreditations ensure technical excellence.

Sustainability commitment

We focus on reducing environmental impact in our own operations and yours.

Zero accidents

Rigorous protocols protect your staff, our team, and your site.

What our customers say

“Mark and the ZLC Energy team were a pleasure to work with. I was kept abreast of progress throughout, all project management tasks were completed to standard, and the installations were excellent. Beyond this, the installation teams were very polite, courteous, and diligent, while going the extra mile to put a smile on our faces. Great work.“

Tom Shuttleworth

University of Exeter Project Manager

Explore our Case Studies

David Salisbury Conservatories

ZLC Energy designed and installed 150kW Solar PV at the factor to reduce carbon and provide optimum return on investment.

  • System Size: 150 kWp
  • Annual ROI: 22%
  • Payback: 5 yers
  • Carbon Reduction: 90,000 kg/year
View Project
Solar Panels on Cornish granite building

Bosinver Farm Cottages and Swimming Pool

We delivered a ground mounted Solar PV installation in a field adjacent to the holiday cottages. Value engineering of the design meant we were able to get more out of the same space, for less cost.

  • System size: 52kWp
  • Annual ROI: 21%
  • Energy Generation: 42,620kWh/year
View Project

St Austell Brewery

Tailored solar PV solutions designed for different energy needs across breweries, distribution centres, and hotels, with a long-term relationship built on trust.

  • System Size: 600 kWp
  • Payback: 4 to 6 years
  • Annual ROI: 20%
View Project

FAQS

How can renewable systems be funded in the education or public sector?

We help clients access funding through finance, government grants, or interest-free loan schemes, ensuring projects are financially viable and compliant.

Will installations disrupt daily operations?

Our engineers schedule work around term times or operational hours to ensure minimal disruption and complete safety on site.

What maintenance do systems require?

Most renewable systems need minimal maintenance. We offer long-term support packages to ensure reliable performance.

Can renewable energy systems help meet net-zero targets?

Yes — we design systems that directly contribute to local authority and institutional sustainability goals through measurable energy and carbon reductions.

What’s the typical payback period for schools or public buildings?

Payback times vary by site, but most achieve returns within 5–8 years, often supported by grant funding.

Ready to Explore Energy Solutions for Your Facilities?

If you’re interested in reducing energy costs, improving sustainability, and increasing operational resilience, we can help you identify the right approach for your facilities. Our team will assess your site and provide tailored recommendations — no obligation.

Accreditations