SpaceMax Dining Canopy Generates Renewable Energy at Cleeve School

Cleeve School in Cheltenham is a highly successful 'all-through' secondary school, educating students from Year 7 to Year 13. With some of the best academic results in the country, Cleeve School has invested heavily in teachers and resources to provide a broad, enriching curriculum and ensure pupils continue to succeed. 

The school needed more dining space, which would be comfortable and usable throughout the year.

Background

Cleeve School has recently undertaken an innovative project aimed at enhancing its sustainability and providing modern energy solutions for the site whilst also creating a flexible social space for its students. This case study outlines the installation of an external canopy integrated with solar panels, highlighting the process, challenges, and the numerous benefits the school has experienced as a result of this initiative.

Project Overview

In 2024, Cleeve School made the strategic decision to install an external canopy structure outfitted with solar panels. The main objectives were to improve the energy efficiency of the school, reduce energy costs, and provide students and staff with a sustainable and functional outdoor learning and recreation space.

The project involved:

• Installing a 205m² external canopy over an open space in the school courtyard.
• Integrating high-efficiency solar panels on the roof of the canopy to harness solar energy.
• Designing the space to provide a shaded area for students and staff, protecting them from harsh weather conditions.

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Project Implementation

The project was implemented in phases, with careful planning to minimize disruption to the school's daily activities:

1. Design and Consultation: The school worked with architects, engineers, and solar panel specialists from Kensington Systems to design the canopy structure, ensuring it met both aesthetic and functional needs. The design incorporated weather-resistant materials and ensured optimal placement for solar panel efficiency. The final design included glazed side walls, infrared heaters, LED lighting and solar panels on the roof. Ventilation panels were also added to comply with building regulations and ensure sufficient airflow.
2. Construction: Construction of the canopy began in the summer, allowing students and staff to continue their activities without significant disruption. The installation of solar panels was integrated during the canopy's construction to avoid additional costs and time delays.
3. Solar Panel Installation: The solar panels were installed using an innovative approach to maximize exposure to sunlight, ensuring optimal energy production. The school chose photovoltaic (PV) panels, which are known for their high efficiency and long lifespan.
4. Completion and Testing: The canopy was completed by the end of the summer holiday period, and an extensive testing phase ensured the solar panels were operational and providing the expected energy output.
   
   

Benefits to the School

1. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
   • The installation of solar panels has significantly reduced the school’s energy consumption from non-renewable sources. Solar power generated by the panels now contributes to powering school facilities such as lighting, heating, and IT systems. The 40 solar panels on the roof have been estimated to generate over 30,000 kWh of electricity per year, contributing to an estimated £8,000 in cost savings.
   • By generating its own electricity, Cleeve School has been able to reduce its reliance on grid power, leading to substantial long-term savings on electricity bills. This reduction in energy costs allows the school to reallocate funds to other important educational initiatives.
2. Environmental Impact
   • The solar panel system produces clean, renewable energy, helping the school lower its carbon footprint and contribute to its sustainability goals.
   • With an estimated reduction of 6.42  tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, the project supports the UK’s national climate targets, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
3. Enhanced Outdoor Learning and Recreation Space
   • The canopy provides a sheltered area for students and staff, which can be utilized for outdoor learning, relaxation, and socializing. This addition promotes physical well-being and fosters a positive school environment.
   • The structure offers year-round protection from the elements, allowing the space to be used in all seasons, and can even host outdoor events.
4. Educational Opportunities
   • The solar panel installation serves as an educational tool, enabling students to learn about renewable energy and sustainability through firsthand experience. Teachers can integrate solar energy concepts into their lessons, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental science and engineering.
   • The project has provided an opportunity for students to engage in sustainability-focused initiatives and raise awareness about energy conservation within the school community.
5. Positive Public Image and Community Engagement
   • The project has enhanced the school’s reputation as an environmentally conscious institution, fostering a positive image within the local community and beyond.
   • The installation of solar panels and the use of renewable energy serve as a model for other schools and businesses, encouraging further investment in green technologies.

Challenges and Solutions

While the project was largely successful, there were a few challenges that needed to be addressed:

1. Budget Constraints: Initially, the cost of the project was higher than anticipated. Though working with Kensington Systems we were able to work out solutions to enable the project to be within budget. The long-term savings on energy bills have made the investment worthwhile.
2. Planning and Coordination: The installation required careful coordination with contractors and the school administration to ensure minimal disruption. The project team worked closely with school staff to plan construction during school holidays and reduce the impact on the day-to-day running of the school.
3. Weather Conditions: The installation was affected by some inclement weather, which caused minor delays. However, with proper planning and flexible scheduling, the project was completed on time.

'The installation of an external canopy with solar panels at Cleeve School has proven to be a highly beneficial investment. The project has not only provided the school with substantial energy savings and reduced environmental impact, but it has also created an enhanced outdoor space for the school community. Additionally, it has fostered educational opportunities, promoting sustainability as an integral part of the school’s ethos.

With the successful completion of this project, the project serves as an inspiring example of how schools can embrace innovation while making a positive contribution to the environment and their community.'

- Paul Baker, Head of Operations & Facilities