Earlier this month, policymakers, educators, and industry leaders gathered at Westminster’s Attlee Suite for the Solar for Schools Parliamentary Showcase. Organised by Chamber UK, Solar for Schools, and National Grid Electricity Distribution, with support from Energy Utilities Alliance and Triodos Bank UK, the showcase highlighted the vital role of education in driving sustainability and renewable energy adoption.
Bill Esterson MP, Chair of the Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee, delivered a compelling speech emphasising the transformative potential of community energy projects, the need to overcome systemic barriers, and the importance of empowering young people to lead the green transition.
Celebrating the Power of Schools
Esterson began by applauding the remarkable contributions of schools involved in Solar for Schools’ initiatives. He highlighted the leadership of pupils, teachers, and staff in adopting solar energy, describing their efforts as a beacon of inspiration for others to follow.
“The leadership shown by students, teachers, and school staff is incredible,” he said. “You are already making a significant difference, and your work inspires everyone to aim higher.”
Esterson engaged directly with students, celebrating their achievements. From schools installing hundreds of solar panels to those sharing their learnings with others, he commended their climate leadership and the example they set for their communities.
Esterson shared the story of a student he met who is now a solar installer. This student went through Solar for Schools’ education program, showcasing the power of connecting classroom learning with real-world opportunities to build green skills pipelines.
Tackling Barriers to Community Energy
A significant portion of Esterson’s speech focused on the challenges faced by community energy projects. He pointed to grid connection delays and bureaucratic obstacles as key issues hindering progress and called for urgent reforms to streamline these processes.
“We need to break down the barriers holding projects back,” Esterson stated. “With the right support, community energy can transform the way we power our schools and communities.”
He cited the frustration of schools waiting years for approval to connect to the grid, stressing that these delays undermine the momentum of otherwise impactful initiatives.
Esterson also referenced the work of the Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee, which had just announced two new inquiries into community energy and workforce development. He emphasised the importance of aligning local energy generation with national energy needs to maximise efficiency and impact.
Inspiring Green Careers
Esterson underscored the need to equip young people with the skills required for green jobs. He highlighted the growing demand for renewable energy professionals, from solar panel installers to engineers and planners, and the critical role schools play in fostering this talent.
“What better place to start learning about the green economy than by being part of something so important at school?” he said. “This is where the future workforce begins.”
He shared an anecdote about a former pupil from his constituency who had gone on to install thousands of solar panels at the Port of Liverpool, illustrating how early exposure to sustainability projects can inspire lifelong careers in the sector.
The Urgency of Action
With the UK aiming to meet its Net Zero targets, Esterson stressed the need for immediate and coordinated action to overcome structural inefficiencies in the energy system. He praised the showcase for bringing together decision-makers and stakeholders to address these challenges collaboratively.
“We must act now to ensure the brilliant work happening in schools is supported and scaled up,” Esterson said. “Together, we can build a cleaner, greener future for all.”
He called on attendees to champion community energy projects and advocate for systemic changes to accelerate their adoption.
Final Thought: Leading by Example
Esterson encouraged students to continue their leadership in sustainability, reminding them of their unique power to inspire others. He left the powerful message:
“It all starts with young people—changing mindsets, leading by example, and making a difference today to shape a better tomorrow.”
Esterson’s speech reinforced the key themes of the Solar for Schools Parliamentary Showcase: empowering schools and communities to embrace renewable energy, breaking down barriers to progress, and preparing the next generation to lead the fight against climate change. He urged everyone to work together to unlock the full potential of community energy initiatives.
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