Decision
- PSDS capital grant if a window is open and the bundled GCC passes. The school owns the asset and the lifetime savings.
- PPA if no capex headroom and balance-sheet matters. School pays for what it uses; gives up lifetime savings to the PPA party.
Ownership and balance sheet
Grant-funded PV sits on the school's balance sheet as an asset. PPA assets sit on the PPA-party's balance sheet; the school records a contractual energy-purchase commitment.
Governance
PPA above ESFA thresholds needs DfE consent for academies. Grant-funded works need trust board ratification only.
20-year worked example
A 100kWp rooftop array generates ~85,000 kWh/yr. At 0.207 kgCO2e/kWh that is ~352 tonnes lifetime. Capital £115,000 (mid-band). £/tCO2e ~£327, marginal. Under a PPA at £0.10/kWh for 20 years the school pays roughly £170,000 across the contract life, retains no asset, transfers no capex. Net economics favour grant materially where the GCC passes.
GB Energy schools solar
For identified state schools, the GB Energy stream pre-empts both routes.