Two years ago, Greater Manchester Community Renewables (GMCR) set up a unique scheme that encouraged the community to invest in solar panels on Primrose Hill Primary School, Irlam Primary School, and Fiddlers Lane Primary, as well as a community centre in Partington.
So far these sites have saved a total of £3,000 on their bills and generated enough clean energy to make six million cups of tea, while investors received interest on their investments.
Now, GMCR has set up a new scheme to fund solar panels on Broadoak Primary School, Bridgewater Primary School, Light Oaks Infant and Junior Schools and Peel Hall Primary School.
The company is aiming to raise £145,000 during June to enable the panels to be fitted over the summer...
"In 2016 we installed solar panels on the roofs of three schools in Salford with the support of people like you" says Ali Abbas, Director of GMCR "We're really excited to be offering four more schools the chance to be part of the clean energy revolution, but we need your help to make it happen. With a minimum investment of £100 you can help these schools, your community and the environment, and earn up to 4% interest on your shares."
Karen Wild, Head Teacher at Broadoak Primary School, adds: "The children and staff at Broadoak Primary School are really excited to be working with GMCR to bring solar panels to our school this summer. We are an Eco School so this is a fantastic next step on our journey to reduce our impact on the environment and to help our children learn more about how we can all help to reduce climate change".
Anyone who buys shares will become members of GMCR, receive interest on their shares and vote to give profits made to a Community Fund to spend on further community energy and environmental education projects locally.
"I invested in GMCR because it's an ethical investment that helps schools save money on their bills and reduces carbon emissions" explains GMCR member Sandra Dutson "It also puts power into the hands of the community instead of big multi-national companies."
GMCR's share offer can be download from www.gmcr.org.uk/invest
For more information visit www.gmcr.org.uk
GMCR's share offer is open until 30 June 2018. Those interested in investing should read the Share Offer fully and take appropriate financial advice.
See also previous Salford Star article on solar panel investment – click here
Main photo shows pupils from Irlam Primary School