North Lanarkshire Council wins national energy efficiency award
North Lanarkshire Council has picked up a national Energy Efficiency Award after taking top place in the category for Council/Local Authority of the Year.
The award recognises the local authority’s vision in improving the energy efficiency of its homes and the environment, together with its drive to tackle fuel poverty and enhance the lives of tenants.
The council’s investment of £40 million over three years is delivering significant results across communities, with over 900 properties benefiting this year alone.
The efficiency measures being applied include; roofing and rendering, loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and external wall insulation, all of which potentially save tenants money on their bills. The council is also embracing new, renewable technologies such as solar panels which are being installed in council properties to help improve home energy efficiency.
The award criteria focussed on the impact the work has had within the local community, feedback from customers and local community, the level of expertise the council has within its own teams and the priority given to tackling fuel poverty within current plans.
Housing convener, Councillor Heather Brannan-McVey, together with Gerry McWilliams, project manager, visited some of the properties to have benefited from solar panels.
Following the visit, Councillor Brannan-McVey said: “The need for more energy efficient homes has never been greater and we’re committed to continuing our roll out of measures to benefit our tenants and help reduce household energy costs and tackle fuel poverty.
“We’re continuing to use the latest technology and are set to invest a further £63m over the next five years, in a range of measures putting our environment and local communities first. Our plans are also helping us meet the Scottish Government energy efficiency standards and contribute to making Scotland carbon free.
“It’s pleasing that this award recognises the excellent work being undertaken by our roof and render team and contractors and reaffirms our priority of ensuring our housing stock is energy efficient, supporting households across the area.”
Energy Efficiency Awards director, Gary Braybrooke, added: “These companies and individuals are at the forefront of implementing significant change in our industry which impact the lives of millions of people throughout the UK. They are true energy pioneers and all the award winners and nominees, who have worked tremendously hard, deserve all the success they achieve.”