Sustainable Development

Energy - Council Usage

The energy management section of the Sustainable Development Team is responsible for energy and water management and fuel supply contracts for Council properties. In addition, in conjunction with the South West of Scotland Energy Agency, they put into effect energy saving measures within domestic properties e.g. cavity wall insulation, new boiler systems etc.

South Ayrshire Council operates some 600 buildings on over 250 sites. The total energy bill (per annum) for the Council is approximately £2.0 million. This, along with the fuel consumed in council vehicles and plant machinery results in emissions of almost 30,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

The County Buildings, Ayr
County Buildings, Ayr

Large amounts of Carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can cause major problems by damaging the ozone layer so increasing the rate of climate change and the associated problems that that brings – higher temperatures, flooding, landslides, hurricanes, tornadoes etc

These emissions are reducing as a result of energy management practices and the purchase of electricity from renewable sources. 20% of all electricity supplied to council buildings comes from these renewable supplies, mainly windpower.

Multispread Vehicle
Fuel consumed in council vehicles and plant machinery

The Council adopted an energy policy in April 1997 covering the public buildings.

South Ayrshire Council run a number of energy saving projects within the community.

Council Stock
There is an ongoing insulation programme in the council stock. The aim is to insulate the walls and loft to current building standards wherever feasible. Most of the stock is suitable for cavity wall insulation, where this is not possible solid wall insulation will be installed. Loft insulation is topped up to 250mm.
Scottish Power is providing grants of up to £1 million over 3 years to assist with this work.

Condensing boilers, the most efficient type of boiler, are now the standard specification for new heating systems in council properties. These are installed where possible along with efficient control systems to minimise running costs for the tenants.
Healthy WarmHomes
The Council is working in partnership with the NHS to improve comfort within the homes of those suffering from respiratory and or heart disease. Suitable clients are referred by health professionals and Healthy WarmHomes provides grants towards heating system improvements and insulation.

For details see the energy grants page.