Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council (MTCBC) is thrilled to announce the successful installation of a 200kWp solar array at Afon Taf High School, marking a significant step towards the Council’s ambitious goal of becoming carbon neutral. The installation, consisting of 500 solar panels spread across three flat roofs, demonstrates the school and the Council’s commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and creating a sustainable future.

This project represents collaboration between MTCBC, Afon Taf High School, and H Factor, a not-for-profit enterprise established in 2016. Funding for the initiative was provided by the Welsh European Funding Office (WEFO), whose mission is to foster innovative projects through grants and appraisals. A thorough feasibility study concluded that Solar PV (photovoltaics) would deliver the highest carbon reductions and cost savings relative to the capital investment.

The solar PV project was awarded to Madola Energy, whose expertise ensured the ideal placement of the solar panels to maximise solar exposure, and is already yielding positive outcomes for the school and the local community:

Carbon Reduction: The project plays a crucial role in reducing MTCBC’s overall carbon emissions, aiding in the achievement of Welsh Government’s Net Zero targets by 2030.
Educational Value: The solar array provides an invaluable educational tool for students to learn about renewable energy and climate solutions, fostering awareness and engagement with sustainability issues.
Financial Savings: Savings from the project will directly benefit the school and isreinvested to support future initiatives.

Iain Goldsworthy, Energy Engineer at MTCBC, said
“Reducing our impact on the environment is high on the agenda for the Council, therefore we are delighted to complete this project. The installation of the 200kW array will allow the school to be powered through clean renewable energy and is reducing the school’s environmental impact.

“The project has also helped MTCBC reduce its overall carbon emissions which helps us to work towards Welsh Government targets of Net Zero by 2030. Alongside the environmental benefits, the solar installation will be used an educational resource for students to learn about renewable energy and solutions to address climate change.”

Cllr Gareth Lewis, Cabinet Member for Education, said
“This project is a wonderful example of how we can work together to create a greener future, with an impressive, estimated carbon saving of 2234 tonnes and cost saving over 25 years of over £1.6M. Not only does it help us reduce carbon emissions, but it also provides a unique educational resource for students to understand the importance of renewable energy.

“We are proud to have completed this project and will co