Our Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme has surpassed both its energy saving and cost saving targets in its first year.

The scheme has implemented a range of energy efficiency improvements across Council and Leisure Centre buildings to save 3,561,864 kWh/Yr.

Energy savings made by the scheme have saved 568.5 tonnes of carbon dioxide, which is the same as driving 2,119,497 miles in a diesel car or taking 108,842 13 minute-showers, twice a day.

The carbon saving measures that were introduced have also resulted in verified cost savings of £125,305 per year.

Cllr James Higginbottom, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Highways, said:

“The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme is an important part of our net zero journey and achieving both our council focused Zero 40 and borough focused Zero 45 goals.

“To see that both the energy and cost savings have bettered the targets that were set out for the first year of the scheme is an incredibly encouraging sign as we look to continue making progress on our net zero commitments.

“This result is a testament to the hard work of our sustainability team and their partners, and I look forward to continuing to build on this solid foundation.”

Improvements made during the scheme have included installing solar panels, replacing LED lights, upgrading building management systems and installing heat pumps.

These changes have been implemented at council buildings, such as the Town Hall, Westgate Plaza and the Crematorium, as well as Royston, Hoyland and Dearneside Leisure Centres.

For more information on our sustainability work, visit our website.