PSDS for schools: PSC scheme guide, Phase 5 watch, eligibility wizard

Solar PV under PSDS vs GB Energy schools solar

Solar PV is eligible under PSDS, but the launch of the GB Energy schools solar stream changes the route [GB Energy]. For solar-only on a state school, GB Energy is now usually the better route. For solar within a decarbonisation bundle, PSDS may still be cleaner.

Oliver Wakefield-Smith

Founder · Digital Signet

Verified for Phase 4 / Phase 5 watch · refresh expected on Phase 5 window opening

£/kWp band

£900 to £1,450 per kWp installed for school roof PV, mid-band £1,150. Includes inverter, mounting, electrical connection.

£/tCO2e

At a grid factor of 0.207 kgCO2e/kWh, PV scores £150-£300/tCO2e (passes the ceiling). On a decarbonising grid the lifetime number worsens; Salix accepts a flat factor for modelling.

Grid export and self-consumption

School load profile matches PV well during term time but exports during holidays. The carbon claim uses net displaced grid kWh, not gross generation.

PPA vs grant

See PSDS vs PPA. PPA preserves capex but you lose the lifetime savings to the PPA party. Useful where balance-sheet treatment matters more than headline cost.

GB Energy interaction

For state schools, GB Energy schools solar is the cleaner route for solar-only. PSDS makes sense when solar is part of a wider heat-pump and fabric bundle inside the £325 GCC.