Cheshire East is partnering with a leading energy company to run a competition for local schools to win a solar panel package worth up to £10,000.

In their mission to lead the way to net zero carbon emissions, Storengy UK is running the competition for Cheshire East primary schools to win a solar panel package to provide them with green electricity.

Subject to Covid-19 restrictions, schools will also have the opportunity for green gas experts from Storengy UK to visit them to discuss the issue of climate change and support the children to develop their ideas on reducing carbon emissions.

The competition is for local school children to get creative and share their ideas on what they will do to combat the climate emergency, perhaps through changes in how they use energy for travelling, or in the home and at school, or coming up with ideas for new climate-friendly technologies which Storengy UK could develop.

Paul Bayley, director of environment and neighbourhood services, said: "Cheshire East has set itself an ambitious target of becoming carbon neutral by 2025 and we are committed to encouraging local businesses, residents and organisations to reduce their emissions.

"By partnering with Storengy UK in this competition, we can engage our local primary schools in supporting us with this challenge. I look forward to seeing the ideas that our future generation come up with, as we work together to reduce our carbon emissions and energy consumption."

Michael Gibson, managing director of Storengy UK, said: "We are proud to be working with Cheshire East Council to provide a boost to the sustainability of our local schools. At Storengy UK, and as part of the wider Engie group, we are leading the energy transition to zero carbon.

"This means not only reducing our own carbon footprint but supporting our customers and local communities to reduce theirs. We are currently engaged in projects looking at the use of biogas and hydrogen to support the transition to a net zero future.

"But we need help to come up with new ideas and solutions. Working with Cheshire East Council we want to engage the scientists and engineers of tomorrow to show us their ideas. That's why we are announcing a competition for Cheshire East schools to win a solar panel package worth up to £10,000.

"Give us your best ideas for sustainability and the winning entries will benefit from green solar electricity for your school. Be as creative as you can!"

Originally launched in February 2020, the competition is now being relaunched following children's return to schools last month. The closing date is Friday 18 June 2021. Schools are asked to email [email protected] by Friday 7 May to note their intention to participate.