Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Orkney seeks input on Energy Efficiency Plan
Residents in Orkney are being called upon to actively participate in shaping a crucial council strategy with the primary objective of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from all buildings across the county. The Orkney Islands Council has initiated a survey to garner valuable feedback that will help shape the Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES).
To further engage the residents, an open meeting is scheduled to take place at the St Magnus Centre in Kirkwall on Wednesday 20 November at 7pm. The meeting, hosted by the Orkney Renewable Energy Forum, will feature a presentation and a question and answer session centred around the LHEES. All residents are encouraged and welcome to attend.
The LHEES is a strategic plan aimed at reducing emissions from buildings situated across the Mainland as well as the isles. This strategy also focuses on enhancing the quality of life for residents by addressing issues related to poor energy efficiency, particularly in light of Orkney’s high prevalence of fuel poverty.
Scotland, including Orkney, has set an ambitious target of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2045. The LHEES plays a vital role in outlining the council’s roadmap towards meeting this challenging target.
Alistair Morton, the council’s energy and utilities officer, elaborated on the components of the LHEES, stating: “The LHEES comprises of two key documents: the LHEES Strategy and the LHEES Delivery Plan. The Strategy serves as a long-term framework outlining the decarbonisation of heat in buildings and enhancing energy efficiency throughout Orkney. It is complemented by the LHEES Delivery Plan, which outlines the Council’s strategic implementation over the next five years.”
Four key priorities have been identified within the LHEES:
- Making Orkney’s homes energy efficient.
- Enhancing energy efficiency to combat fuel poverty.
- Boosting the carbon efficiency of non-domestic council buildings.
- Exploring heat networks for non-domestic council buildings.
Mr Morton emphasised the collaborative effort needed to achieve the Net Zero target, highlighting that the council only owns 7% of properties, and the fuel poverty rate stands notably high at 31% as per the 2017-2019 Scottish House Condition survey. Cooperation with partners such as Orkney Housing Association Ltd, owner occupiers, and private rent landlords will be paramount in meeting the set objectives.
He further mentioned: “The council has already made substantial investments in improving the energy efficiency of its housing stock, with 93.5% of council-owned homes boasting an energy efficiency rating of EPC band C or higher, meeting the initial phase of the Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing (EESSH).
“However, achieving compliance with EESSH2, as mandated by the Scottish Government, will pose significant challenges and costs.”
The ongoing consultation presents a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to critically review the draft strategy, suggest enhancements, and pinpoint areas that require additional attention. It is a chance for the community to actively contribute towards refining the LHEES Strategy.
If you wish to contribute your feedback, the survey can be accessed at orkney.gov.uk/LHEES. The deadline for submissions is Friday 6 December at 5pm.
