Interest-free loan now available for Oxfordshire County Council maintained schools to install energy saving measures
Oxfordshire County Council have re-launched an interest-free loan scheme to provide county maintained schools the opportunity to install energy saving measures.
After a successful first round of funding last year in which four schools were supported, the loan offer re-launches this year with limited funding available on a first come, first served basis.
The offer
County-maintained schools in Oxfordshire can apply for an interest-free loan of up to £70,000 to install LED lighting and/or solar photovoltaic (PV) panels for schools to generate their own clean energy right on site.
When’s the deadline?
The application window for schools is open until Thursday, 28 March 2024, although it will close sooner if oversubscribed. Applications will be reviewed and assessed as they come in, so schools are encouraged to apply early.
About the technology
LED lights use at least 75% less energy than incandescent lights and last up to 25 times longer. Switching out old lightbulbs for these energy efficient ones is a simple, but effective action to cut energy use.
By installing solar PV panels, schools will generate their own clean energy that they can use directly on site. This cuts their carbon emissions and is also a valuable teaching tool for staff and students to learn about renewable energy technology.
About Action on Carbon and Energy in Schools
Action on Carbon and Energy in Schools (ACES) is an energy efficiency support service to help schools in Oxfordshire carry out energy saving measures to cut carbon emissions, save money on energy bills, and make buildings more comfortable and healthier for staff and students. It is a partnership between Environmental Information Exchange (EiE) at Oxford Brookes University, Low Carbon Hub and Oxfordshire County Council. Find out more: www.ace-schools.org