In early 2022, Middlesex Learning Trust in North London faced soaring energy costs. With budgets under pressure, the trust needed a rapid and sustainable solution to reduce consumption and future-proof its energy strategy.
Rising electricity costs were adversely impacting operational budgets, but the trust had limited immediate options for large-scale infrastructure changes.
Phase 1: Behavioural Change
The trust quickly implemented a “Switch Off” campaign and a systematic programme of optimising building management systems, timers, and thermostat settings.
Phase 2: Solar PV Installation
2023/4 Barker led the rollout of renewable energy solutions in the form of Solar PV systems to further cut costs and carbon footprint.
Phase 3: LED Lighting Upgrade
In 2025, we rolled out LED programmes across both sites, generating significant efficiency gains.
Over five years, consumption has been down 66% since energy-saving measures began. Electricity use for September 2025 dropped 43% at Southgate and 39% at The Compton from LED lighting alone.
The trust’s energy efficiency journey is clearly shown in the following graphic showing incremental improvements achieved through behavioural and operational changes, Solar PV installations and LED upgrades.
“We never expected it to be this good. It’s astonishing. When reviewing the consumption charts, you can see the impact of SOLAR and then LED. Electricity use is down 66% since I started energy-saving measures. I am so pleased.”
Sarah Ewins, Chief Finance and Operating Officer
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