Savings made on West Sussex County Council energy bills

West Sussex County Council has continued to significantly reduced its carbon footprint, delivering savings of more than £500,000 on energy bills.
JPCT 230413 County Hall North, Horsham, West Sussex. Photo by Derek Martin ENGPPP00320130424214348JPCT 230413 County Hall North, Horsham, West Sussex. Photo by Derek Martin ENGPPP00320130424214348
JPCT 230413 County Hall North, Horsham, West Sussex. Photo by Derek Martin ENGPPP00320130424214348

The council has cut the amount of gas and electric used in its buildings by 15 per cent and 23 per cent respectively since 2010.

In doing so it has saved £521,675 in energy costs and £32,569 in Carbon Reduction Commitment payments - and 2,714 tonnes of carbon.

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Council leader Louise Goldsmith said: “A few years ago the county council, like many others, signed up to reducing its carbon emissions by 50 per cent by 2050 - quite a long time off but I am pleased to say we are on track to deliver this target.

“Energy is only going to get more expensive so it is important we make efficiency savings now to help lesson our impact on the environment while saving the taxpayer money.

“Our dedicated staff have been instrumental in our success as without their support we would not have been able to deliver such a positive outcome.

“However, we won’t stop and will continue to look at ways of making more savings and driving out costs.”

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The council has also invested in solar power with photo-voltaic panels on its suitable offices, fire stations and libraries. Last year the electricity from 28 installations was almost enough to power all WSCC’s fire stations.

Other successful green and sustainable measures include:

- West Sussex Car Share Scheme – this scheme currently has 3,730 workers from across the county as members and helps to cut travel costs and reduce carbon emissions.

- WSCC has delivered 180 School Safety Zones and many Safe Routes to School improvements encouraging journeys to work that aren’t in the car.

Last year 8,660 school pupils received Bikeability training to level 2. More than 60 people received level 3 or specific adult training.

Levels of ‘recorded cycling’ in Chichester have increased by nearly seven per cent since 2008.