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The enduring appeal of Solar for Schools
Following the successful launch of their 14th raise with Ethex, Solar For Schools remains a popular choice for ethical investors, this blog examines the reasons why.
Ethex is always proud to work with organisations that deliver practical, meaningful climate solutions that people can get behind. And few partnerships demonstrate this more clearly than our long-running relationship with The Solar for Schools Community Benefit Society (CBS).Their latest bond offer (their 14th raise through Ethex) is already off to a flying start. It’s currently over 75% of the way to its £2 million target, thanks in part to many existing investors choosing to reinvest their repayments from earlier bonds. That momentum tells its own story: this is an investment model that works, and one that continues to resonate strongly with people across the UK.
Why Solar for Schools appeals to investors year after year
There are some clear reasons why Solar for Schools investment offers consistently attract such strong support:
It’s a simple idea that just makes sense
Schools are among the best places to install solar panels: They often have large rooftop spaces that are generally well-maintained. Their energy usage is highest during daylight hours. The energy savings can be redirected to where they’re really needed for education, for more staffing, equipment and educational resources that are beneficial to students.
The model is straightforward: Solar for Schools installs solar panels with upfront investment from their investor community, enabling schools to generate clean, affordable electricity without the capital outlay. Schools then save on bills from day one, and at a time when budgets are tighter than ever, often in communities where support is vitally needed.
A UK-wide impact, including areas of deprivation
Solar for Schools works in all parts of the UK, making sure that the benefits of clean energy are not limited to more affluent areas. Many of the schools they support are in places facing financial pressure, ensuring that the social impact matches the environmental one.
Real climate action at a critical moment
The latest climate warnings have been clear: we are running out of time. But many people feel unsure how to respond in a meaningful way.
Investing in Solar for Schools provides a direct, measurable way to help cut carbon emissions. Thanks to the Solar for Schools CBS, to date, more than 220 schools now have solar panels, saving over 6,684 tonnes of CO₂, and more than 80 schools are currently waiting to start the process.
Educating and inspiring the next generation
As well as installing carbon-busting solar panels, Solar for Schools also delivers high-quality sustainability education programmes, and more than 115,000 students so far have experienced the power of renewable energy first-hand.
They’re delivering climate action AND climate education, empowering students to understand the need for and path to our transition to a low-carbon future and inspiring green careers for future engineers, scientists and sustainability leaders we need.
A strong track record and attractive investment terms
Solar for Schools Community Benefit Society has an established history of delivering projects and repaying investors, which is one reason many choose to reinvest.
This latest offer targets 5% annual returns, with a minimum investment of just £50 and eligibility to be held in an IFISA, meaning returns can be tax-free, depending on individual circumstances.
The enduring partnership
At Ethex, we’ve been proud to support Solar for Schools over several years, and it is one of the standout examples of what community investment can achieve: clear environmental impact, positive social benefit and a strong, trustworthy vehicle for everyday investors.
This latest raise will help bring solar panels to up to 25 more UK schools, with the potential to reduce energy bills, cut emissions, and support hands-on sustainability learning for thousands more young people.
We fully expect this raise to be a big success – and you can be part of it. Find out more here.
Ethex is proud to have received the following awards
Ethical Consumer Best Buy
Wealth & Finance Leading Ethical Investments Platform 2025