This is the first LHEES for Moray and it provides the basis for decarbonising heat in buildings and improving energy efficiency. There’s a legal requirement for local authorities to prepare, publish and review an LHEES every five years.

Moray’s strategy identifies seven local priorities and acts as a platform to empower local communities to participate in a tailored approach to heat transition and locally-led decarbonisation initiatives.

The seven priorities identified for Moray are:-

• Building sustainable and climate resilient communities
• Maximising knowledge and awareness and ensuring certainty of success
• A just transition for the energy system
• Supporting a wellbeing economy, jobs and skills
• Tackling fuel poverty and improving health
• Improving the energy efficiency of buildings
• Decarbonising building heat sources

The full draft strategy and delivery plan documents are available to view online, while the consultation runs until 16 May 2024 online with hard copies available on request from infohubs in all Moray libraries.

Council Leader, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, is encouraging locals to contribute: “This strategy is a chance for locals to use their influence to shape the future of heat transition in Moray. Not only will this allow us to continue to work towards our climate change aspirations but it will offer a framework for individuals and businesses who want to play their part in driving down our carbon emissions and improve our energy efficiency.”