Created: 15th July, 2026
We’re delighted to announce that Barker has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Building Awards’ Environmental Impact Award category.
The business has been nominated for its work across the education estate via the Great British Energy Solar Partnerships (GBESP) initiative and the Net Zero Accelerator Programme (NZAP).
This award recognises those who have progressed the environmental agenda over and above carbon reduction, including promoting the circular economy, improving biodiversity or conserving nature and reducing waste or pollution.
The Barker Consortium has delivered 700+ energy projects since mid‑2024, including 55 solar PV, 90 LED, 150 EV charging and 212 Heat Decarbonisation Plans. Across 25 schools supported through NZAP in 2025, we achieved c.398 tCO₂e savings, generating £512,000 in real‑world value.
Our GBESP installations delivered 9.5MW of new solar PV across 79 education premises. They are forecast to save tens of tonnes of carbon annually and achieve a five‑year ROI – something which is a rare achievement for public sector decarbonisation.
Learn more about the GBESP programme, and how our installations are making a difference to schools across the country:
Barker Supports 74 Schools Through Solar Roll-Out
Barker Consortium Delivers Key GBE Project Milestone
“Being shortlisted in such a prestigious awards scheme is testament to the achievements of the Barker Consortium, which are nothing short of incredible.
“We are grateful to the Building Awards for recognising our hard work in the decarbonisation space and it is an honour to sit alongside nominees that are doing equally important work in this area.”
For the judges, our technical capabilities were clear, as was the role Barker plays in shaping policy and implementing decarbonisation programmes for schools across the country. Just as importantly, this work has had a significant impact on schools and inspired genuine behavioural change in wider communities.
All Building Awards winners will be announced at the presentation ceremony at The Grosvenor House Hotel in London on 3 November.
Our Work in the Education Sector
