Solar Panel Installation at West Grove Primary School
- Delivered a solar PV system at West Grove Primary School in 5 working days
- Installed 110 high-efficiency panels with an expected annual output of more than 42,000 kWh
- Projected energy bill savings of around £22,000 per year
- Projected long-term carbon reduction of 11 tonnes annually
Aston Group Enfield Council Solar Schools
West Grove Primary School in Enfield was one of four schools selected for energy improvements through the Greener School Grant – a funding initiative from the Greater London Authority that helps schools reduce carbon emissions. Aston Group was awarded the work through the new LHC N9 Retrofit and Decarbonisation Framework, where we placed first for Solar PV and Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS).
The project supports the aims of the Zero Carbon Accelerator – an initiative backed by the Mayor of London to help boroughs like Enfield cut emissions from public buildings and move towards net zero by 2030.
West Grove was the largest of the four schools involved, with more than 400 pupils and a large, two-storey school building.
The Challenge
The biggest challenge was time. We were officially given the go-ahead for the project at the end of July 2025 and had just a few short weeks to complete the work before the school reopened in September.
To meet the deadline, the whole project needed to be planned and delivered quickly and efficiently – from scaffolding and equipment delivery to installation, safety checks and final handover.
The Solution
To make the most of the available roof space and enhance the original plans, we worked with our solar partner, OPM, to carry out an accurate feasibility study of the site and finalise installation plans. Using specialist software, they designed a system that would perform well all year round and avoid wasted space.
The final design included 110 high-efficiency solar panels, connected to an inverter that turns the solar power into usable electricity. The panel layout was also carefully designed to avoid shading from nearby buildings or rooftop obstructions. HelioScope modelling confirmed excellent solar access year-round, helping to maximise output and long-term performance.
We started work on site on 18 August 2025 and finished the installation – including commissioning and removing scaffolding – by 22 August, just five working days later. Everything was completed safely, on time and within budget.
The Results
The new system is expected to generate more than 42,000 kilowatt hours of clean electricity each year – enough to save the school around £22,000 on its annual energy bills. It will also cut carbon emissions by about 11 tonnes a year. In the long term, the school could save more than £830,000 in energy costs.
The system also provides a valuable learning opportunity for pupils, showing how solar energy works and helping the school promote sustainability as part of everyday life.
“We’re really happy with the work Aston Group did installing solar panels on our school roof. Their team was professional, efficient and caused very little disruption to our daily school activities.
“The installation team were friendly and knowledgeable, taking the time to explain each step of the process clearly. They left the site clean and tidy, which we really appreciated. Plus, they’ve been great with aftercare support, showing they truly care about the quality of their work.
“Overall, Aston Group has been a pleasure to work with, and we’d definitely recommend them.”
This project was a great success for Aston Group. It showed what we can achieve under pressure and proved our ability to deliver high-quality solar installations in schools. It also marked the start of our relationship with Enfield Council and opened up new opportunities in the education sector.
We’re proud to have played a part in helping West Grove Primary take a big step towards a cleaner, greener future.