Owlcotes Multi Academy Trust PSDS Decarbonisation Project

Challenge

Serving around 468 pupils and 68 staff, Pudsey Waterloo Primary School sought to reduce its carbon footprint, enhance energy efficiency, and modernise its heating and lighting systems while maintaining full operation throughout the works. With rising energy costs and dated infrastructure, the school needed a sustainable solution that aligned with its long-term decarbonisation goals outlined in its Heat Decarbonisation Plan, prepared by Eddisons’ Sustainability team.

To support this, Eddisons secured £615,000 of funding from SALIX Finance through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS 3C), enabling the installation of new air source heat pumps (ASHP), solar PV, and LED lighting upgrades.

Solution

Eddisons led the project as consultant, overseeing funding applications, delivery coordination, and stakeholder engagement. We secured all necessary approvals, including planning and DNO consents, and managed tendering, contractor liaison, and health and safety planning.

In our roles as Contract Administrator and Principal Designer, we worked closely with the principal contractor, G&H, to deliver a programme that combined modern low-carbon infrastructure with minimal disruption to school operations.

The works included the installation of three ASHP systems within an acoustic enclosure, supported by underground trenching, a 2,500-litre buffer vessel, circulation pumps, and insulated cladded pipework. These systems were fully integrated via the school’s Building Management System (BMS). In addition, a 50kW solar PV array with a 50kWh battery energy storage system was installed to improve energy autonomy, alongside new LED lighting throughout the school to reduce electrical consumption.

To minimise disruption, works were carefully planned around the academic calendar. Key phases took place during the summer holidays, while essential term-time tasks were completed under strict safety protocols, including segregated work zones and controlled access routes. LED lighting installations were undertaken during twilight shifts, with daily clean downs to ensure the school remained safe and ready for pupils each morning.

Results

Delivered on time and within budget, Pudsey Waterloo Primary School now benefits from a comfortable, modernised learning environment supported by advanced control systems and improved building services. The school generates around 40% of its annual electricity consumption from on-site renewable sources, while the transition to low-carbon heating and efficient lighting has reduced both energy costs and carbon emissions.

Eddisons continue to work with Owlcotes Multi Academy Trust on further projects and funding opportunities to enhance energy performance and sustainability across their estate.

“Eddisons have seamlessly delivered the project, and I couldn’t be happier with the end result. The team was diligent, prioritising health and safety and working flexibly to minimise disruption to the school’s pupils and staff. There are too many benefits to mention, but notably, we have reduced our carbon emissions significantly.”

Mark Dobson, Facilities & Estates Manager