Historic school installs solar system to cut emissions
A 439.2 kWp solar system is now under construction at Stonyhurst College, a historic Lancashire school founded in 1593 and based in the county since 1794, where it educates pupils aged three to 18. The project, led by Green Shield Group, will install solar panels across multiple buildings on its Grade I and Grade II*-listed estate. When operational, the system will generate roughly 400,000 kWh of electricity annually, reducing the school’s reliance on grid power and cutting 55.6 tonnes of CO₂e each year.
Green Shield Group coordinated with Ribble Valley Borough Council and Historic England to ensure the installation preserves the estate’s historic character. The project, funded by AMPYR Distributed Energy, also includes four electric vehicle charging points, with completion expected in early 2027. The design addressed challenges such as varying roof ages, structural stability, and heritage protection.
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Alex Palffy, lead engineer at Green Shield Group, noted the project’s connection to Stonyhurst’s history: “I love the idea that the same school that helped astronomers map the surface of the Sun will now be using sunlight to power some of its day-to-day life.” He described the brief as both inspiring and demanding, given the estate’s significance.
Paul Sharples, commercial director at Stonyhurst, emphasized the practical challenges, including roof loading, visibility, and fire safety. Green Shield Group managed surveys and planning approvals to ensure the project met both operational and preservation standards. Sharples highlighted that the initiative will help manage energy costs while safeguarding the school’s buildings and collections.
