Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Scotland funds innovative university project
The University of Edinburgh is making commendable progress towards achieving net zero targets, thanks to the substantial financial assistance provided by the Salix-delivered multi-million-pound government grant programme. Heather Jones reports on how public sector bodies in Scotland are actively working towards decarbonisation through the Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund.
The aim of Scotland’s Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund is to aid local authorities, universities, and arm’s-length external organisations in decarbonising their buildings, focusing primarily on heat-related initiatives. Launched in July 2023, the scheme welcomed applications in November of the same year.
Among the successful recipients of funding are the University of Edinburgh, Fife Council, Perth and Kinross Council, Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), North Lanarkshire Council, Dumfries and Galloway Council, and Edinburgh Napier University. These organisations are undertaking ambitious projects to combat the urgent climate crisis, with Salix playing a vital role in supporting them to achieve their objectives. Salix collaborates not only with the Scottish Government but also with governments across the UK to pave the way for a low carbon future.
The funding provided by the Scottish Government will assist these organisations in transitioning away from fossil fuel-based heating systems by facilitating the replacement of such systems and incorporating energy efficiency measures through retrofitting.
While the initial projects have been awarded funding, a comprehensive list of successful applicants is expected to be released later this spring, subject to thorough assessment by Salix’s dedicated teams.
Salix’s Chief Executive, Emma Clancy, advocates for a collaborative approach to addressing the climate crisis and is eager to witness tangible results. She expressed her delight in supporting these organisations on their decarbonisation journey, thereby propelling them towards their net zero aspirations. The diverse range of projects highlights innovative solutions in the realm of building heat decarbonisation, promising exciting developments in the near future.
As part of the funding arrangement, these organisations will closely collaborate with Salix to execute the projects efficiently and achieve the desired outcomes.
Here is a breakdown of the funding and projects awarded to date:
– The University of Edinburgh has been granted £2,079,459 to reduce heat demand in key university buildings and incorporate a heat recovery pump for district heating.
– Fife Council receives £2,404,911 to upgrade two sites using heat pumps and reduce heat demand.
– Scotland’s Rural College SRUC is awarded £387,130 for their first step towards net zero through insulation retrofit.
– Perth and Kinross Council secures £324,546 for heating supply upgrades at Auchtergaven Primary School.
– North Lanarkshire Council obtains £2,345,176 for transforming the Strathclyde Park Watersports Centre into a ‘Net Zero Health Hub’.
– Edinburgh Napier University is granted £1,241,966 for upgrades at the BE-ST innovation centre, focusing on sustainable technologies.
– Dumfries and Galloway Council receives £2.5 million to replace the mains gas system with an environmentally friendly heat pump at the Dumfries Ice Bowl.
The urgency of the climate crisis demands concerted efforts from all organisations to address the looming challenges. The Public Sector Heat Decarbonisation Fund in Scotland fosters innovation and collective action as entities unite to combat the adverse effects of climate change.
Salix eagerly anticipates collaborating with the successful projects in Scotland, working hand in hand with the teams, organisations, and the Scottish Government to expedite the transition to a low carbon future. With time being of the essence, we must act swiftly and decisively in the face of the escalating global climate crisis.
For more information about Salix’s work, visit www.salixfinance.co.uk.
Heather Jones, a Senior Programme Manager at Salix, is actively engaged in partnering with the Scottish Government to develop and implement funding schemes supporting the Scottish public sector’s transition to zero emissions. This article originally appeared in the May 2024 issue of Energy Manager magazine. Subscribe here.
