Sheffield’s climate bond scheme is funding solar panels for around 21 maintained schools, helping them generate cleaner electricity, reduce energy bills and give pupils practical lessons about renewable energy. The project matters because it uses investment from local residents and businesses to support the city’s climate goals while directing savings towards schools.

The installations are expected to cut emissions by about 115 tonnes of CO₂e a year. Schools will buy the electricity produced on their roofs at a rate below standard grid prices, with average initial savings estimated at £675 per school and about £50,000 over 25 years; income will fund maintenance and repay investors.