Low Carbon Skills Fund
Public Sector Buildings in the UK account for around 2% of the UK’S total emissions. With the majority of these buildings still relying on fossil-fuel based heating systems, the UK Government have introduced a target of reducing emissions in public sector buildings by 75% in 2037.
What is the Low Carbon Skills Fund?
The Public Sector Low Carbon Skills Fund offers grants to public sector bodies including leisure centres, hospitals, community centres and schools. This funding provides public sector organisations with the necessary skills and guidance to create effective heat decarbonisation strategies. Developing a heat decarbonisation plan allows these organisations to progress further in their decarbonisation efforts and reach net zero targets. The Low Carbon Skills Fund (LCSF) has provided £66 million in funding since 2020, opening its online applications annually in Spring.
What is a Heat Decarbonisation Plan?
The purpose of a Heat Decarbonisation Plan (HDP) is to show how a building will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by replacing fossil fuel heating systems with low carbon alternatives. Heat decarbonisation plans outline the most cost-effective way to decarbonise heat through energy efficiency measures that reduce heat demand. A Heat Decarbonisation Plan is a personalised building overview of the best strategy for reaching net zero carbon targets. The HDP is then used to complete a LCSF funding application.
Our expert team conduct HDP surveys in the initial stage of a Heat Decarbonisation project. Some of our past successful projects including:
- The Diocese of Blackburn
- The Diocese of Chichester
- Ryedale Learning Trust
- Newbridge Academy Trust
Funding Schemes
Following Phases 1-4 of the Low Carbon Skill Fund Schemes, applications for Phase 5 will open in April 2024. The emphasis of this round remains on providing grant funding for projects that focus on developing heat decarbonisation plans. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has made available up to £16 million of funding for Phase 5 Low Carbon Skills Fund. As with previous phases, the applications go through a rigorous assessment process to ensure they meet the requirements of the scheme eligibility criteria before being allocated funding.
Why are HDP Plans needed in schools and public sector buildings?
The decarbonisation of Public Sector buildings is crucial for several reasons including:
Climate Change Mitigation: Public Sector buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gase emissions in the UK. Heat Decarbonisation Plans for these buildings can lower their carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
Energy Efficiency: Many public buildings are old and inefficient in terms of energy use. Decarbonisation involves upgrading heating systems, insulation, and other components to improve energy efficiency and lower energy costs.
Health and Well-being: Improved heating systems and better insulation lead to more comfortable indoor environments. This positively impacts the health and well-being of occupants, especially in public buildings where people spend significant time, for example in schools.
Government Commitments: The UK government has set ambitious targets for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Decarbonizing public sector buildings is a critical step toward meeting these goals.
Air Quality Improvement: Traditional fossil fuel-based heating systems release pollutants into the air, affecting both indoor and outdoor air quality. By adopting cleaner technologies, public sector buildings can improve air quality for occupants and the surrounding community
How Can Mantis Energy Help?
Mantis Energy have been submitting Salix Low Carbon Skills Fund (LCSF) bids for several past funding rounds (Phases 1-4) and are familiar with the current and future application process (Phase 5). We specifically tailor our decarbonisation plans and pre-application design work to include the most relevant and up to date information to increase your chances of a successful grant application.
Our team assists in preparing your submission forms for the moment the Salix portal opens. This means you are ready to go at the press of the button for this funding opportunity.
Get in touch today to speak to one of our expert team, where we can discuss your public sector building and your available funding options.