A new primary school has been rated the greenest and most energy efficient in the UK.
The new Greenhill Primary School in Gelligaer, which is due to open after Easter, has achieved an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating score of A+..
Cllr Colin Mann, deputy leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council, said: “I am delighted the council is once again leading the way, not only in Wales but across the whole UK in ensuring sustainable, energy efficient buildings which will be fit for purpose for generations to come.”
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates buildings on Carbon Dioxide on an A+ to G scale.
The new Greenhill Primary School features four wind turbines and a large array of solar panels to generate its own electricity.
In fact, more electricity will be generated on or within the school than the school will actually use and the surplus will be exported to the grid.
Rainwater will also be harvested and will be used to flush toilets, and over half of the water used by the school will be recycled.
The brand new school building for Greenhill Primary School is coming to fruition thanks to a £4million Welsh Assembly Government grant.
Education Minister, Leighton Andrews said: “The Welsh Assembly Government is committed to ensuring that every child in Wales is educated in an environment that is conducive to learning for the 21st Century.
“This commitment is reflected in an investment of £4 million by the Welsh Assembly Government to deliver a brand new eco-friendly school.
“The new Greenhill Primary is a modern, sustainable, 21st Century School and an excellent example of what is being achieved here in Wales.”
The pupils of Greenhill Primary School are expected to move into their brand new school building after the Easter holidays, with an official opening planned for May.