How does the CBS work?

The CBS raises money from ethical investors and the community around each school by issuing investment bonds and shares.

Solar Options for Schools (SOFS) works with the school to develop and install the best sized system to meet the schools’ ambitions. SOFS only gets paid by the CBS once the installation is complete.

The school pays the CBS for only the solar electricity it uses, at a previously agreed rate that is usually lower than current retail electricity prices and indexed to inflation; saving the school money on its electricity bills.

The income to the CBS from the sale of electricity to the school and the grid is used to cover interest payments, re-pay funders over time and cover operating costs.

The operating costs include all spares and repairs as well as SOFS management and education delivery costs, so there are no on-going risks or costs for the school.

Any surpluses or profits, go back to the schools once funders have been repaid.