Here are the 8 municipal financing models for improving the indoor climate of schools.

This blog post was made on the basis of Realdania's publication "Advice for indoor climate" and knowledge in the area is taken from this publication.

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At a time when the indoor climate in schools plays a decisive role for both well-being, health and learning, many municipalities face the challenge of finding funding for necessary improvements.

Behavior-changing indoor climate sensors that can help optimize ventilation, temperature and CO2 levels can be an important tool. But how can a municipality finance such measures in a depressed economy?

Realdania has, in collaboration with Smith Innovation and Dansk Facilities Management , launched the inspirational catalog 'Advice for indoor climate', which, among other things, is intended for municipal property managers.

Let us help you delve into the various funding sources that can help municipalities to get the necessary means to improve the indoor climate in schools by using behavioral regulation.

Of the report's nine financing options for all types of indoor climate improvements, we have selected the seven that can be used to finance behavior-changing products:

1. Budget for building operation/maintenance

One of the most used methods of financing is to use the municipality's existing budgets for building operation and maintenance. In many municipalities, these budgets are already tight, but funds can still be found for smaller investments, such as indoor climate sensors .

Tip! Have specific indoor climate projects ready for quick initiation if surplus operating funds arise. At ÅBN, we offer to send a tailored offer simply based on a floor plan of the building or buildings you want help with. Just send us the floor plan and we'll take care of the rest.

2. Co-financing across operating budgets

Another option is co-financing between different operating budgets, for example from the school area. By combining funds from different departments, a more holistic solution can be achieved that not only improves the indoor climate, but also supports other initiatives, such as better acoustics or energy efficiency.

Tip! Behavior-changing indoor climate sensors in the vast majority of cases provide value for both Technical Management and e.g. Children/Youth management as both the building operations and the professional level are affected.

3. Construction permit

For larger investments, the municipality can apply for a building permit. Construction grants are adopted by the municipal council and can cover larger projects that solve fundamental challenges across several schools. A well-prepared business case and political support are essential to secure these funds.

Tip! Read how Faxe Kommunes The Chairman of Children and Learning got indoor climate sensors in all schools. Read more.

4. Municipal pool

The municipality can use municipal pools to finance behaviour-changing indoor climate sensors. These pools are often set aside for specific challenges, such as leisure, sports, urban development or health, and provide the opportunity to apply for funds for projects that lie outside the usual budget areas. Although the competition for these funds can be fierce, and the pools often exist for a limited period, they are an obvious opportunity to finance initiatives that improve the indoor climate.

This can be combined with the municipality's operating budget for building operation and maintenance to achieve a more robust financing strategy.

5. Public-Private Innovation Cooperation (OPI)

OPI is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with private companies to develop new solutions. Municipalities can enter into partnerships where, together with a private actor, they develop and test new technologies, such as behaviour-changing indoor climate sensors. This makes it possible to get tailor-made solutions that suit the municipality's specific needs. Read more about OPI here.

6. Leasing

Leasing is another method where the municipality can acquire sensors without having to make a large one-off payment. Instead, regular installments are paid, which makes it easier to balance budgets. Leasing can be particularly attractive if the project also involves energy renovation, as it can reduce overall costs.

Tip! ÅBN offers 24-month leasing of IoT sensors at a fixed low monthly price. Contact us to hear more.

7. Fund support

There are many foundations in Denmark that support projects in technology, health and education. By applying for fund support, the municipality can obtain funding for the purchase of indoor climate sensors and at the same time gain access to expertise and advice from the funds. Examples of successful fund applications can be seen in municipalities such as Ringkøbing-Skjern and Esbjerg, which have obtained support through Realdania.

8. ESCO models

Energy Service Company (ESCO) models are another option where a private company finances energy improvements in return for a share of the savings. This model can be combined with indoor climate improvements, where the sensors become part of a larger energy efficiency project.

Tip! You can save up to 39% of the building's energy consumption by optimal behavior and use of the building. In some cases, ÅBN can offer an ESCO model . Contact us to hear more.

Read the entire publication

This was a short extract of how municipalities can find funding for indoor climate sensors. Read and download Realdania's entire publication on their website: https://realdania.dk/publikationer/faglige-publikationer/raad-til-indeklima