Net-zero retrofit school feasibility brief
Net-zero retrofit feasibility is the most ambitious brief on the menu. It pairs a full multidisciplinary refurbishment scope with energy modelling, embodied-carbon accounting and Spec21 / Gen Zero compliance.
Spec21 / Gen Zero scope
Gen Zero, the DfE specification for net-zero carbon schools, sets the operational and embodied-carbon targets and the fabric-first hierarchy. The brief must require the consultant to model the post-retrofit operational energy and the embodied-carbon impact of the proposed works [source: Gen Zero, verified 2026-06-24].
£710m Renewal & Retrofit Programme
The £710m R&R Programme announced in February 2026 funds rebuild and refurbish work with pre-construction feasibility recoverable through DfE allocation. Cohort timing and eligibility are confirmed by the DfE estate strategy [source: DfE announcement, verified 2026-06-24].
Energy and embodied carbon deliverables
Operational energy model (kWh/m²/yr), embodied-carbon assessment (kgCO₂e/m²), MVHR feasibility, fabric-first U-value targets, glazing replacement strategy, plant-room electrification strategy.
Non-negotiable surveys
Air-tightness test, thermographic survey, ventilation survey (CO₂ logging), structural appraisal for ASHP loads.
Fee envelope
Stage 0-2 multidisciplinary with sustainability consultant commonly £28,500-£47,500 on a secondary scheme. Adds to a baseline refurb fee by 15-25%.