During the recent Labour Party conference Jon Cruddas MP expressed his support for a Friends of the Earth campaign to help London schools save thousands of pounds by installing solar power.
Friends of the Earth estimates that schools could each save up to £8000 per year by going solar ? more money to spend on libraries, playgrounds and trips. They would also help to tackle climate change by reducing carbon emissions, and provide an opportunity for children to learn about clean energy.
The environment charity's ?Run on Sun' campaign wants all schools to be able to be powered by solar power. It is raising awareness of the benefits and signposting schools to different funding methods, as well as running a national competition for schools to win solar panels.
Speaking at the Labour Party Conference in Manchester, Jon Cruddas MP said: "Investing in solar power saves money, creates jobs, and provides clean energy, this is why we need much more of it in our communities, starting with our schools. It's because of these points that I am pleased to support the campaign that Friends of the Earth are currently running."
Friends of the Earth Renewable Energy Campaigner Anna Watson added: "It's fantastic to have Jon Cruddas' support. The potential of solar power is enormous and with his support we can help more schools to save money through solar power, bringing renewable energy right into the heart of our towns and cities."