Funding is available to enable energy efficiency and cost savings in addition to strategic carbon reduction plans across their assets.
The aim of this initiative by CO2 Target is to provide schools with an energy survey to demonstrate how they can reduce their energy spend to the lowest level possible through energy efficiency projects and behavioural changes.
Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme
Schools can take advantage of funding from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme which provides grants for public sector bodies to fund heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency measures. The scheme was aimed at encouraging green investment, supporting the Government’s net-zero and clean growth goals.
Energy efficient technologies in schools and colleges
Installing energy efficient technologies in schools and colleges is an effective way to reduce energy and maintenance bills, modernise academic facilities and create a more comfortable learning environment for staff and pupils.
The money saved as a result of these initiatives can then be used by schools to improve or invest in new learning materials and teaching support.
The Benefits of energy efficiency projects
The annual energy bill for English FE Colleges is estimated to be in excess of £90m. Therefore significant financial benefits could be seen by investing in measures to reduce energy consumption. Energy efficiency projects also form a crucial part of strategies to reduce carbon emissions. Salix is able to fund programs of work spanning multiple years to help support these strategies.
Many projects can also result in improved working and learning environments, reduced ongoing
maintenance costs and improvements to existing building stock.
Schools, Further Education & Colleges – Commonly installed technologies:
- Boiler controls
- Building management systems
- Boiler replacement
- External LED Lighting
- Heating and hot water
- LED Lighting
- Lighting controls
- Lighting upgrades
CO2 Target Schools Energy Efficiency Initiative
Schools and colleges taking part in the CO2 Target energy efficiency survey initiative will receive:
- An overview of the school’s energy consumption and costs.
- An indication of all possible energy efficiency improvements.
- An outline of Energy efficiency projects which can be funded by Salix.
The Schools Initiative Process (illustration)
- School contacts CO2 Target Salix to register interest
- CO2 target discusses processes with school (and Governors if required)
- School surveyed and initial report provided
- Funding options explored
- CO2 Target makes a detailed report and the application for the School for Salix funding
- Energy efficient technologies procured and installed by CO2 target
- Co2 Target supports the school with ongoing measurements
Initiative Costs
To help schools overcome financial barriers, the cost of the initial survey has been heavily discounted.
Should the initial report findings lead to opportunities for further funding, a detailed report and funding application process by CO2 Target can be included in the funds applied for from Salix.
How to apply
To register interest, please email project lead becky.hutchinson@co2target.co.uk
Schools will be asked to provide the following details in the expression of interest:
- m2 of the school.
- Annual energy spend.