Robertson delivers net-zero Flintshire school
With sustainability features including 1,080 rooftop solar panels, the 113,000 sq ft Mynydd Isa campus in Mold will accommodate up to 1,300 pupils from nursery through to age 16.
The new campus, described as a £65m scheme on its award in 2022, has been delivered by Robertson Construction North West on behalf of WEPco, and is now Flintshire County Council’s first net-zero carbon in operation school.
WEPco is the Welsh Education Partnership, set up to deliver around 30 new schools under a mutual investment model for capital projects established by the Welsh Government.
The solar panel system sees photovoltaic cells covering approximately 80% of the roof, an area of more than 26,900 sq ft.
These panels are expected to generate more than 300,000 kWh of electricity each year, reducing carbon emissions by more than 70 tonnes annually. During the summer months, any extra electricity produced will be sent back to the grid.
Other features include air source heat pumps for heating and hot water, and a rainwater management system.
The two-storey campus is able to accommodate 1,300 pupils, including 43 nursery-age children, 600 primary pupils, and 700 high school students.
High school pupils were first to move to the campus earlier in May, with the remainder of pupils moving in after the summer break.
Elliot Robertson, chief executive of Robertson Group, said: “Delivering Mynydd Isa Campus as Flintshire’s first net-zero carbon in operation school marks a significant step forward for sustainable building in Wales.
“Collaborating with WEPCo and Flintshire County Council, this project underscores our dedication to delivering projects that support communities and promote a sustainable future. We will continue to maintain the campus through Robertson Facilities Management and look forward to being part of the community for many years to come.”
Flintshire CC cabinet member for education, Welsh language, culture and leisure, Cllr Mared Eastwood, said: “I was delighted to represent the council’s climate change committee and see this remarkable project coming to life. It not only reflects our commitment to high-quality education but also to a greener, more sustainable future for our children.”
Neil Cutting, project director at WEPCo, said: “We’re delighted with the net zero carbon solution for this project. A first of its kind for MIM, we are thrilled with the completed building which demonstrates how state of the art education facilities can be built responsibly.”
The school is part of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme.
