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The Energy Saving Fund (ESF) was recently approved by the Council’s Cabinet [governing body]. Savings made through reduced energy and water use will be reinvested in other energy and sustainability schemes across the Council.
The Council’s Urban Design’s Sustainability and Energy Management team is leading the project. The first task for the project is to survey all Council buildings identified as high-energy users. The surveys will pinpoint reasons for high energy or water use and help identify solutions, with work to install new equipment likely to start early in 2008.
Council Deputy Leader Paul Tilsley, whose portfolio includes sustainability, said: “The ESF is about investing now to reduce both our impact on the environment, and our energy use, in the future. Measures to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions will range from simple draught-proofing strips for doors and windows to sophisticated sensors that use motion detectors to switch on lights when needed.” Measures under the ESF to reduce energy use and CO2 emissions range from the simple to the sophisticated, and could include:
- Insulation in walls or roofs
 Zoned heating, to supply heat only where and when it is needed. On large sites, several different zones can operate
Draught-proofing strips, which cost as little as €7.50 (£5) per metre, but can save the 20% of heat lost through gaps around doors, windows and skirting boards
Solar film on windows, which keep the sun’s heat out in summer, reducing the need for air conditioning or fans, and reduce warmth lost in winter
Automatic lighting controls using time switches, motion detectors or light sensors to switch on lights only when needed
Thermostatic radiator valves, which cost around €45 (£30) each, but save 10% of each radiator’s energy use by improving their efficiency
Localised water heaters, which allow areas using large amounts of hot water – such as kitchens – to have a supply separate from the rest of the building
Swimming pool covers, which reduce both heat and water loss through evaporation
Intelligent water metering, which enables the identification of times of peak demand and the detection of leaks
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