Renewable energy, building retrofit and electric vehicles
Schools play a vital role in Essex’s journey to net zero. From energy-efficient buildings to installing electric vehicle (EV) charging points, there are a range of ways schools can reduce carbon emissions and save on energy costs.
Net-zero build, renewable energy and retrofit
As part of ECC’s commitment to net zero, all new school builds in Essex have been net zero since 2022.
For existing schools looking to improve energy efficiency and switch to renewables, there are a number of retrofit options available. New technologies can help monitor energy use more closely and may also lead to cost savings.
Switching to renewable energy might include changing electricity suppliers, installing solar panels, or replacing a gas boiler with a heat pump. Further retrofit measures could include improving insulation and double glazing, or installing LED lighting.
As our climate changes, good insulation will also help create a more comfortable learning environment and support student wellbeing during hotter summers.
New models of financing and funding to help the education sector decarbonise are being discussed at national level. Great British Energy has recently announced initial investment in solar panels for schools.
Until recently, the main source of financial support for maintained schools and academies has been the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), delivered by Salix. Through this scheme, partial funding has been provided to support schools whose heating systems are at the end of their working lives.
You can read more about good estate management for schools and DfE guidance on energy efficiency on GOV.UK.
For schools with Solar PV: Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government-backed initiative that allows schools with solar PV systems to sell excess electricity back to the National Grid. When a school generates more solar energy than it consumes, the surplus, known as export, is fed into the grid instead of going to waste. The graph below illustrates this process, with the orange area representing the excess energy produced. By registering for SEG, schools can ensure they receive payments for the electricity they contribute to the grid.
Based on the average export across 31 Essex schools and an estimated SEG rate of 4p per kWh exported to the grid, a school could expect to receive £572 per year. The amount of energy exported will depend on strong energy efficiency management. For example, if electrical appliances are switched off during weekends, evenings, and holidays, most of the solar energy generated can be sent to the grid rather than covering the school’s base load (the energy being used constantly despite the building being empty). Securing a higher SEG rate would further increase payments from the scheme.
Schools can sign up with a different supplier from their main electricity contract, as the SEG agreement is separate. To register successfully, schools typically need:
- an MCS certificate
- a smart meter of an export meter capable of half-hourly readings
- an export MPAN registered under the Balancing and Settlement Code
- proof of ownership
- G99 / DNO approval for the system
A list of current SEG Licensees can be found here. SEG Licensees generally pay between 1 and 5.6p per kWh of exported electricity. Higher rates may be available if energy purchase and SEG agreements are with the same company. Price comparison websites regularly update tables of SEG rates. Searching “SEG price comparison” can provide the latest figures.
Schools interested in the Department for Education's Energy for Schools Scheme should email the DfE at energy.schools@education.gov.uk for more information on their facilitation of SEG agreements.
For general SEG support, please email schoolenergyteam@essex.gov.uk
Electric vehicle charging points
Schools and educational institutions are eligible for a grant towards the cost of purchasing and installing electric vehicle (EV) charge points, including infrastructure.
You can find details, including eligibility (up to 75% off the cost, conditions apply) and the application form via Workplace Charging Scheme for state-funded education institutions – GOV.UK.
Schools can also explore independent funding. Many charge point operators (CPOs) offer support for schools installing EV charge points – a quick online search will bring up current offers.