Last Opportunity 26/27: Get Solar PV and LEDs with the OCC Energy Efficiency Fund

Unlock Energy Savings for Your School – Join Our Upcoming Webinar

Oxfordshire maintained schools now have a powerful opportunity to cut energy bills and take climate action with the OCC Interest‑Free Energy Efficiency Loan Scheme, delivered through the ACES programme.

This scheme enables schools to install LED lighting, solar PV, and battery storage with no interest, flexible repayment periods, and expert guidance throughout. Schools save more per year on bills than their annual repayments!

With rising energy costs and increasing pressure on school budgets, these upgrades are becoming essential rather than optional.

To help schools understand the benefits and the simple application process, ACES and Oxfordshire County Council are hosting a 30-minute webinar (+30-minute Q&A) covering everything you need to get started. The session includes:

How the interest‑free loan works
A real school case study with one year of results
Step‑by‑step guidance on applying
Live Q&A with ACES and OCC experts

ACES provides free onsite assessments, procurement support, quote reviews, and a dedicated helpdesk, making the process straightforward and reducing workload for school staff.

Here’s what St Swithun’s CE Primary School’s SBM had to say:

“We have found the energy efficiency loan process to be straightforward and well supported. The installation of solar PV has helped us to reduce our electricity costs and contributes to our wider sustainability objectives. Any savings generated will be reinvested into supporting pupils' learning and maintaining our school environment.

“The project has also provided opportunities to engage pupils in discussions about renewable energy and sustainability, helping to bring these important topics to life within the curriculum.

“We have been pleased with the outcome and would encourage other schools to consider the scheme.”

Webinar Date: 14 July 2026 Time: 2pm

Who should attend: Headteachers, School Business Managers, Governors, and Site Managers.

If your school is considering LED upgrades or solar PV — or simply wants to understand what’s possible — this webinar is the perfect starting point.

For more information on the scheme visit the ACES site. For any questions, please contact ACES@caesl.co.uk.