Energy in buildings

Energy in Buildings: retrofitting works

We have switched to 100% renewable electricity for all WDC electricity supply, saving around 1,260 tCO2e.
We have taken part in the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund Demonstrator programme and identified effective ways to undergo whole house energy retrofits using some of the latest technology available. Examples of the kind of works included are:
- the replacement of windows with high-performance triple glazing
- under floor and loft insulation
- mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to reduce the risk of damp and mould and provide fresh filtered air
Under the Green Homes Grants scheme, we have obtained over £1.3m funding for three phases of the scheme. So far, we have installed 17 air source heat pumps and 54 solar PV panels including loft insulation on our social properties helping to keep residents warmer and lower their fuel bills.
A further £5.6m funding has been obtained under the Green Homes Grants Phase 3 'Sustainable Warmth' scheme to install a range of measures to private sector properties including rented properties. This scheme closes at the end of March 2023.
Through Act on Energy, EcoFlex grants have been provided to residents, predominantly for fuel poverty and residents with health conditions, but many with carbon reduction benefits as well.
We have set aside £18m in the Housing Investment Programme for carbon reduction measures in Council homes and we have recruited staff to drive forwards this work.

Energy in Buildings: new buildings

Bringing forward low or zero carbon new buildings:
- Proposals for the Community Stadium
- Kenilworth Leisure Centres (these are not zero carbon, but do include some significant energy efficiency reductions over and above building regulations)
- Significant carbon reduction measures incorporated into the Creative Quarter – Spencer Yard proposal (albeit this is not net zero carbon due to the need to incorporate measures within listed and historic buildings)
We are leading the way in investing in low carbon social housing including:
- Development of 54 housing units at Europa Way with carbon reduction upgrades
- 43 housing units at Bishops Tachbrook with carbon reduction upgrades
We have helped influence the design of the new HQ building of 2nd Warwick Sea Scouts to swap the proposed gas heating system for Air Source Heat Pumps and Photovoltaic Panels.
Net Zero Carbon standards are included in the draft development brief for the redevelopment of Riverside House.
There will be a new cycle hire scheme and café at Newbold Comyn which will also be a zero carbon design.

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