On 06 December 2022 the government made an announcement on Additional Capital Funding to help shield schools and trusts from the effects of rising energy costs.
What was the announcement?
• Schools and colleges to share £500 million to spend on energy efficiency projects
• Payments to be made in December 2022 and funds spent in financial year 2022-2023
• Funding to be spent on capital projects with energy efficiency works prioritised.
More information via the link HERE.
How much will we receive?
The average payment for a Primary School is £16,000. Secondaries average £42,000.
Allocations were calculated using the following formula:
(£10,000 + £20.06 x weighted pupils) x VA factor
The published list of funding allocations can be accessed HERE.
What can we spend the money on?
You should prioritise projects that will improve your school estate’s energy efficiency. This could take various forms but key areas to consider would be:
• Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Panels
• LED Lighting
• Heating controls
• Efficient boilers or low carbon heating systems
• Insulation of heating and hot water pipework
• Double glazing
• Roof insulation
As well as capital projects, schools can use the money to carry out energy audits, develop energy strategies or produce Heat Decarbonisation Plans.
Trusts should consider pooling allocations to fund projects that generate the greatest savings.
When does the money need to be spent by?
This funding is for institutions that were eligible for devolved formula capital in 2022 to 2023 and the spending is subject to the same rules as DFC funding.
Schools and trusts should have plans in place for spending this additional allocation by 31 March 2023 with spending committed by 01 Sept 2023. Projects can be completed after this date but projects should have been started, or spending committed.
We understand from the DfE that Multi Academy Trusts will be most closely scrutinised and their expenditure of the Additional School Capital Funding should be reported in the Trust’s annual SCA return.
What help is available?
Barker is helping schools and Trusts across the UK to become more energy efficient, save carbon and save money. We can provide your school or Trust with the following help;
• Budget costs and payback calculations for key energy efficiency projects
• Energy audits to help identify and prioritise projects
• Design and project management of energy efficiency projects
Barker is partnering with Confederation of School Trusts (CST), The Trust Network (TTN), Institute of School Business Leaders (ISBL) and Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) to share best practice and ensure that the schools and academies sector maximises the benefit of this grant funding.
To discuss your project please contact us