Cutting schools' energy bills during the cost of living crisis

Client: Energy Sparks

In response to the cost-of-living crisis facing UK schools, the Drax Foundation partnered with Energy Sparks and local schools in a three-year collaboration (2023–2025) to deliver urgent financial relief and long-term resilience. Across Drax’s operational footprint, the programme has helped more than 300 schools reduce energy costs by a combined £3.77 million.

The programme combines immediate, practical interventions with lasting behavioural change. Through Energy Sparks’ award-winning digital energy management and education platform, 240+ schools have accessed real-time energy data, expert support and pupil-led learning that embeds energy awareness into everyday school life. This approach delivers ongoing savings without capital investment, while empowering pupils to become energy champions both in school and at home.

Alongside this, the Drax Foundation has provided targeted grant funding to enable 54 schools to install energy-efficient LED lighting and/or solar panels. These infrastructure upgrades have reduced electricity costs by up to 60% annually, freeing up vital resources that can be redirected back into teaching and learning during a period of exceptional financial pressure.

By tackling affordability, education and decarbonisation together, this collaboration demonstrates community-centred model that delivers meaningful financial relief, strengthens educational outcomes and supports schools most impacted by the cost of living.