Phase 3c of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) has been announced with up to £230m available for financial year 2024/25. The scheme, overseen by Salix, provides grants for public bodies to fund heat decarbonisation and energy efficiency measures to help applicants on their journey to net zero.

The announcement follows the recent results released for the previous phase of the PSDS scheme (Phase 3b), which gave £590m to 180 public bodies supporting 227 projects. There were 58 successful projects submitted specifically for schools and academies, receiving 11% of the available funding and a further 14 successful projects, worth £53m, going to schools within projects awarded to local authorities.

The government has a vision for the UK to be the world leading education sector in sustainability and climate change by 2030. The vision as set out in ‘Strategy on Sustainability and Climate Change for Education’ released in April 2022 wants all education settings to have a sustainability leader and Climate Action plans in place by 2025.

The PSDS is currently the only regular funding stream available to support significant energy efficiency upgrades and as it is public sector wide, it is heavily oversubscribed. We estimate that the bidding window for Phase 3b in 2022 closed within hours. Given the funding available for Phase 3c is less than 50% of the funding available in Phase 3b we anticipate an even more competitive round this year.

Salix have released updated Guidance Notes for Phase 3c of the PSDS and are encouraging anyone wishing to apply to download and complete applications before the portal opens in the Autumn. The application process is rigorous requiring comprehensive supporting documentation and a detailed delivery plan. To make the most of the opportunity, we recommend seeking professional expertise and preparing your application early.

If you require assistance in applying or want to discuss your overall sustainability plans, we are here to help! Our team of expert chartered building surveyors and engineers will personally guide you through the application process, ensuring your project stands out and has the best chance of success. Contact us on 0116 5070130 or email enquire@s2e.org.uk.