Areté Learning Trust

Project Overview

Funding a Transition to Clean Energy

Ryedale School aimed to reduce its carbon emissions and energy bills by moving away from fossil fuels. To support this ambition, the Trust applied for Salix PSDS funding. C3 Group was brought in by Areté to develop a tailored strategy that would meet both technical and funding criteria.

What We Did

Delivering a Decarbonisation Plan with Impact

C3 Group partnered with Gate and Bar to deliver a site-specific heat decarbonisation plan for Ryedale. Our proposal centred around a ground source heat pump (GSHP) system, supported by solar PV, providing a clean and efficient solution for the school’s long-term needs.

Scope of Work:

A 889 kW GSHP system to cover heating and hot water demand
Solar PV array generating 87.61 MWh/year – covering 34% of electricity use
Energy monitoring and building surveys to assess performance
RIBA Stage 2 designs, layout plans and schematics
Market engagement and cost modelling to support the bid
A full Salix application pack, including cash flow planning and risk assessment

We also supported a second bid for Broomfield Primary School within the Trust. While awarded, the Trust chose to prioritise Ryedale due to its greater opportunity for impact.

The Results

Funding Success, Real-World Savings

Ryedale School’s Salix funding bid was approved, unlocking investment to deliver a low-carbon heating system that will drive energy and cost savings for years to come.

Key Outcomes:

£66,884 in annual energy cost savings
951,358 kWh in gas savings per year
A sustainable system aligned with the Trust’s long-term energy strategy

This success forms part of a larger impact – C3 Group has helped clients secure over £14.3 million in grant funding in 2025 alone.

Work with C3 Group

Want to Decarbonise Your Trust?

From technical design to funding applications, C3 Group helps schools and trusts take confident steps toward net zero – with plans that are practical, fundable, and future-ready.

Let’s talk about your decarbonisation journey.

Get in Touch

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