It’s no secret that schools across the UK are under pressure — from balancing stretched budgets to upgrading ageing buildings, all while trying to meet increasingly urgent net zero and carbon reduction targets. In this environment, simply being “green” isn’t enough.
What the education sector really needs is a smarter approach to energy: one that’s evidence-based, financially viable, and designed for the realities of school operations — all while contributing to a robust Heat Decarbonisation Plan.
The Problem With One-Size-Fits-All Solutions
When it comes to energy efficiency in schools, there’s no shortage of “solutions” being offered — but many are off-the-shelf and oversimplified. Solar panels are often proposed in isolation, without considering existing electrical systems, usage patterns, or roof viability.
At C3 Group, we take a different approach.
Before recommending any technology, we carry out detailed analysis — from load profiles and heating system reviews to full Carbon Reduction Planning, energy audits, and feasibility studies. Only then do we move to solution design. Because “sustainable” doesn’t mean much if it’s not also sustainable for your budget or building.
What Makes It Work? Joined-Up Delivery
Many schools we speak to have had experience with consultants who stop at the strategy stage — leaving them to navigate procurement, PSDS funding, and installation on their own. That’s where our model adds real value.
C3 Group focuses on Carbon Reduction Strategy, Salix Funding Guidance, and Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund compliance. GW Power, our delivery partner, implements the technical solutions — from solar PV and LED lighting upgrades to mechanical system overhauls and controls integration.
Together, we offer a complete end-to-end school decarbonisation strategy, built around collaboration, clarity, and measurable impact.
Real Impact in the Education Sector
In Hull, we partnered with Thrive Trust to develop full Net Zero Roadmaps across several school sites — aligning technical insight with curriculum-linked sustainability goals. Once the Heat Decarbonisation Plan was in place, GW Power completed the LED lighting installations, reducing ongoing energy use across the Trust’s estate.
We’ve also supported academies and colleges across the UK with solar feasibility assessments, Salix funding readiness, and long-term energy efficiency planning, helping to create educational environments that are cost-efficient, future-ready, and climate-conscious.
What Schools Should Be Asking Now
If you’re in a leadership or estates role, the most important energy questions in 2025 aren’t just “Should we install solar panels?” — they’re:
- What’s our energy baseline, and where are we losing efficiency?
- Are we prepared for upcoming Salix or Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) funding opportunities?
- Do we have a clear, compliant Heat Decarbonisation Plan in place?
- Who can help us take our strategy all the way through to on-site delivery?
Start Smarter with C3 Group
Sustainability in education isn’t about ticking a box — it’s about building a smarter, more resilient estate that works for students, staff, and budgets.
Whether you’re planning ahead or ready to take action, we’d love to support your school, trust, or academy with practical, end-to-end carbon reduction solutions.
Get in touch with C3 Group to arrange a conversation with our education team.
Or visit GW Power to learn more about our on-site delivery expertise — from energy efficiency upgrades to full Net Zero implementation.
We’re also exhibiting at the Education Estates Net Zero Conference on April 24th — come visit our stand to discover how we can support your school’s sustainability journey.
