PSDS grant-size estimator for schools

Sanity-check the £/tCO2e for a scheme before commissioning feasibility. Bands derived from published Phase 3 and Phase 4 funded-project lists [DESNZ].

Oliver Wakefield-Smith
Founder · Digital Signet
Verified for Phase 4 / Phase 5 watch · refresh expected on Phase 5 window opening
Primary source · Salix Finance PSDS portal salixfinance.co.uk/PSDS last verified 22 Jun 2026
Lifetime kgCO2e displaced
1,698 tCO2e
Asset life: 20 years
Capital cost (low · mid · high)
£496k · £703k · £951k
413 kW heating output
£/tCO2e vs £325 ceiling
£414/tCO2e
Fail

Indicative only. Bands derived from published Phase 3 and Phase 4 funded projects. A feasibility study with site survey, heat-loss model and Grant Carbon Cost calculation is the binding artefact for any Salix-portal application.

Worked example: 420-pupil secondary, gas heating

A 420-pupil primary at 3,200 m² GIFA burning 620,000 kWh/yr of gas, switching to ASHP. Annual gas-displaced kgCO2e is 620,000 × 0.18254 = 113,175 kg, with 25% remaining via electricity gives ~84,881 kg/yr. Over 20 years that is 1,697 tonnes lifetime. ASHP sizing at 1500 full-load hours = ~413 kW. Mid-band capital £1,700 × 413 = £702,100. £/tCO2e = £414. The scheme fails the £325 ceiling. Add a fabric-first package to drop heat demand 30%, and the ratio falls below £325. This worked example matches the calculator output to within rounding.

Calculation method

This is indicative only. The Salix portal application requires a feasibility study with site survey, heat-loss model and a Grant Carbon Cost calculation evidenced by the measure supplier.

Related

£325 ceiling explainer, GCC threshold, case awards, ASHP measure page.