WME Launches New Solar PV
Framework

WME is delighted to announce the launch of its new Supply and Installation of Solar PV Framework, providing schools, academies and Multi-Academy Trusts with a simple, compliant route to deliver solar energy projects and accelerate their journey towards net zero.

The new framework has been developed specifically for the education sector and builds upon the success of WME's Education Decarbonisation Framework. While many schools and trusts have already undertaken decarbonisation studies, energy audits and climate action planning, the next challenge is often turning those plans into reality.

This framework has been designed to do exactly that – helping organisations “move from planning to delivery”.

Designed for the Education Sector

Schools and trusts face unique challenges when delivering renewable energy projects. Limited internal resource, complex procurement regulations and competing budget priorities can often slow progress.

WME's new framework has been designed with these challenges in mind, providing a straightforward route to market for the supply and installation of solar PV systems.

Whether an organisation is looking to install solar panels on a single school building or across an entire estate, the framework provides access to pre-qualified suppliers with proven experience of delivering projects within the education sector.

Fully Compliant with the Procurement Act 2023

One of the key features of the framework is that it has been procured in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023, providing customers with confidence that projects can be delivered through a fully compliant procurement route.

For schools, academies and trusts without dedicated procurement teams, this removes significant complexity and risk, allowing them to focus on delivering outcomes rather than navigating procurement legislation.

Supporting Local Supply Chains and Social Value

The framework is structured across 10 regional lots, ensuring customers can access suppliers that understand local markets, local planning considerations and regional supply chains.

This regional approach supports the delivery of social value by encouraging local economic growth, reducing travel requirements and helping to create opportunities within local communities.

By matching projects with suppliers operating within their region, customers can benefit from local expertise while supporting wider sustainability objectives.

Flexible Procurement Options

Recognising that different organisations have different requirements, the framework offers flexibility in how projects are awarded.

Customers can choose to:

• Direct Award where a suitable supplier can be identified quickly and efficiently.
• Further Competition (Mini Competition) where additional project-specific requirements need to be evaluated.

This flexibility enables customers to select the procurement route that best meets their governance, timescale and project objectives.

Managed Service or Self-Service

The framework can be accessed in a way that suits each organisation's level of resource and expertise.

Customers can choose a self-service approach, managing the procurement process themselves using framework documentation and guidance.

Alternatively, organisations can utilise WME's managed service, where our experienced team provides support throughout the procurement process, helping to reduce administrative burden and ensure projects progress smoothly from concept through to contract award.

Supporting Net Zero Ambitions

Solar PV continues to be one of the most accessible and effective technologies available to schools and trusts seeking to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy resilience and manage long-term energy costs.

With growing interest in renewable energy, increasing pressure on budgets and ambitious sustainability targets across the education sector, now is the ideal time for organisations to consider how solar can support their wider estate and environmental strategies.

WME's new Supply and Installation of Solar PV Framework provides a trusted route to market, helping schools, academies and Multi-Academy Trusts deliver renewable energy projects with confidence.

Ready to move from planning to delivery?

Contact the WME team to find out how our new Solar PV Framework can help your organisation take the next step on its decarbonisation journey.