The challenge
Schools face increasing pressure to reduce energy costs, cut carbon emissions, and demonstrate progress against sustainability commitments, often within constrained estates and live environments. Each site required a solution that would generate meaningful renewable energy while making better use of existing outdoor space.
Across all three schools, the brief went beyond standard rooftop solar. The structures needed to provide sheltered outdoor or parking areas, integrate seamlessly with photovoltaic systems, comply with structural and planning requirements, and deliver strong financial and carbon outcomes. Each site also presented unique constraints, including shading, wind and snow loads, future EV charging requirements, and the need to minimise disruption to daily school operations.
The solution
Carbon3 delivered a coordinated solar carport programme, managing both canopy structures and photovoltaic installations to ensure performance, safety, and visual coherence.
At the first school, two solar canopies with a combined capacity of 62.64 kWp were installed using 144 high efficiency panels. Close collaboration with the school was required to balance canopy height, panel orientation, and shading patterns. Through detailed 3D modelling and load calculations, Carbon3 optimised panel tilt and alignment without compromising structural integrity or usability of the covered space. The completed installation now provides sheltered outdoor areas alongside significant on-site electricity generation.
The second school in Oxfordshire required a bespoke solution capable of maximising solar yield while providing effective vehicle shelter and allowing for future expansion. Carbon3 designed a double gull-wing solar carport with a total capacity of 78.3 kWp. The structure was engineered with flexible mounting points and pre-planned electrical routes so that EV chargers can be added in future without structural alterations. Wind and snow load assessments were carried out to meet local building regulations, and 3D modelling was used to fine-tune panel positioning for optimal solar exposure.
At the third school, a 32.04 kWp solar canopy was delivered as a fully integrated structure and PV system. The design accounted for shading from nearby trees and surrounding buildings to ensure consistent energy output throughout the year. By overseeing both the canopy installation and the solar PV installation, Carbon3 ensured a coordinated approach, supported by load testing and structural verification prior to installation.
Design approach
Across all three projects, Carbon3 applied a consistent and robust design methodology to maximise performance and long-term value. Each site underwent detailed surveys to assess orientation, shading, ground conditions, and structural capacity, supported by soils testing and geotechnical assessments where required. CAD-based 3D modelling was used to optimise panel layout, tilt, and spacing, while structural and electrical designs were developed to allow for future technologies such as EV charging. Monitoring and maintenance planning was incorporated from the outset to protect performance over the life of each system.
The results
Together, the three solar carport installations deliver substantial environmental and financial benefits:
The systems generate more than 147,000 kWh of clean electricity each year, offsetting over 37 tonnes of carbon emissions annually when compared to grid electricity. Combined annual savings across the three schools exceed £42,500, providing long-term budget relief and protection against rising energy costs.
Beyond the numbers, each site now benefits from improved outdoor or parking facilities, making better use of existing space while visibly demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. The solar carports act as both practical infrastructure and educational tools, reinforcing environmental values within the school communities.
Carbon3’s role
Carbon3 was responsible for the end-to-end design, engineering, and installation of the solar carports and photovoltaic systems. By taking a joined-up approach to structure and solar design, Carbon3 ensured that each installation achieved maximum energy yield, full regulatory compliance, and long-term flexibility.
These projects demonstrate how schools can decarbonise their estates, reduce operating costs, and enhance site functionality through well-designed solar carport solutions. Contact us to find out how a solar carport can save you money.
