Energy saving plans backed

02 May 2006 06:08

Plans to introduce energy saving measures at the headquarters of South Norfolk Council have been backed by councillors.

As previously reported, the authority is looking at ways to save energy and cut bills at South Norfolk House in Long Stratton, which is the most costly of its properties to run.

It follows a significant increase in costs for the building over the last year because of rising electricity and oil prices.

The council is also trying to be more environmentally friendly by reducing energy consumption and waste in order to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.

On Monday the council's Cabinet backed the introduction of an energy action plan for the building, which could lead to an 11.59pc reduction in consumption and a 14.93pc reduction in costs, representing an annual saving of about £11,500 a year.

Measures include installing a wind turbine at a cost of £20,000 and checking insulation levels, which would cost about £4000.

A feasibility study will now be carried out on the idea of the wind turbine, which would have to go through the normal planning process, including public consultation.

The measures were recommended by The Carbon Trust, which carried out a survey and found that while the building is not inefficient, there is scope for further improvements.

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