Part of 2. Questions to the Minister for Education and Welsh Language – in the Senedd at 2:47 pm on 21 September 2022.
Minister, undoubtedly the cost of supplying energy to school buildings with the recent increases in wholesale energy prices is going to put enormous strain on finances, which, as we know, are already under considerable pressure. It is therefore a real concern that headteachers will have to make staffing cuts in order to balance budgets, as highlighted earlier by other Members. Whilst we all agree that the situation that schools find themselves in is far from ideal, I believe that the current situation gives cause to invest more vigorously in the energy efficiency of school buildings. I wonder therefore what plans you have to upgrade the energy efficiency of school buildings across Wales, and, given that many of them have highly suitable roof surfaces and sufficient ground space to support renewable energy generation, whether this Government is going to provide investment to enable schools in Wales to install solar panels or suitable wind turbines. Thank you.