What you can do to reduce energy costs

Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS)

The Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) gives schools a discount on gas and electricity where unit prices are above a certain threshold. Other costs like administration fees or taxes are not affected and will stay the same.

You do not have to apply for the scheme, the discount will be automatically applied to your bills.

The EBDS is available to schools until 31 March 2024, it replaces the Energy bill relief scheme (EBRS) which has ended.

Help for schools not connected to the gas grid

Schools that are off the gas grid and use alternative fuels can get a fixed payment of £150. There are also ‘top-up’ payments for large users of heating oil based on usage. See how to apply for energy bill support for non-domestic properties.

Don’t let your energy contract expire

It’s important that you do not let your energy contract expire. Out of contract costs can be significantly higher and have less favourable terms and conditions.

Renewing your contract

If your renewal is due in the next three months you could try getting a short-term contract for 3, 6 or 12 months. Shorter term contracts mean you have more flexibility to change your approach.

Be more energy efficient

Read guidance about how to improve the energy efficiency of your school or trying using a DfE-approved energy efficiency framework.

Get support with your procurement

Use the Get help buying for schools service to get help and support from our procurement experts. We can answer questions about buying energy services, help you find suitable frameworks, or help with running your procurement.