Decarbonisation Plan - Action Tracker & Case Studies
Argyll and Bute Council · 11 August 2022
Back to Policy and Resources Committee — 11 August 2022 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
Some pages contain no extractable text. They may be blank, graphics or scanned pages. OCR has not been applied.
Page 1
ARGYLL AND BUTE COUNCIL POLICY & RESOURCES COMMITTEE CLIMATE CHANGE BOARD 11th August 2022 DE-CARBONISATION PLAN – ACTION TRACKER & CASE STUDIES 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 Addressing Climate Change is a global issue that is hugely reliant on partnership, collaboration and the actions of us all. No single organisation can tackle it in isolation and as a Council we need to show clear leadership and lead by example in all that we do. Our first Decarbonisation Plan was published in 2020 to support and align to our ‘green recovery’ from the pandemic and much progress has been made to delivering climate commitments outlined in our associated de-carbonisation action plan from last year. This year greenhouse gas emissions from the Council have reduced for the 5th year in a row and we are now emitting 33% less CO2 equivalent than we did 6 years ago. Our region continues to be one of the lowest carbon emitting local authority areas in the UK due to our natural assets (including foresty and peat), renewable energy developments and low number of polluting industries. 1.2 The De-carbonisation Plan sets a 3 year framework to continue our climate journey and routmap to net zero. Many of the actions continue from previous versions of the Plan but importantly this year – and as specified that would be achieved – our Council has made a clear commitment to be a net zero organization by 2045 and has also declared a climate emergency befitting the importance and critical nature of the topic. Whilst the main decarbonisation plan will be fixed for 3 years the associated Action Plan (which forms an Appendix of the document) will be continuously updated and reported to both the Climate Change Board and Policy & Resources Committee. 1.3 In support of the Action Plan a number of supplementary case studies have been provided by departments to provide the new Council additional information on the positive climate related work the Council is undertaking. 2.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 2.1 That the Policy & Resources Committee consider and endorse: 1. The progress of specific actions from the Decarbonisation Action Plan; and 2. The supplementary case studies that provide information on positive climate change projects being undertaken by different departments of the Council. APPENDIX A – DECARBONISATION ACTION PLAN TRACKER APPENDIX B – CLIMATE CHANGE CASE STUDIES
Page 2
APPENDIX A – Climate Change Action Plan TRACKER ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS W1 –Develop and Implement Waste Strategy (L) Roads and Amenity Services, Community, commercial customers Implementation of the Waste Strategy transitioning to Landfill ban compliant Residual Waste Recovery solutions by 2025. External funding and support being sought from the Scottish Government Negotiations with the Scottish Government (SG) continues. Officers have procured a consultant to conduct an options appraisal relating to the Waste PPP contract, this work is underway and will be completed by September and reported through the EDI committee. The SG have recently completed an Energy from Waste review, the outcomes will be considered as part of the options appraisal. Furthermore, a Food Waste review issued by the SG by the end of 2022 will feature within the circular economy proposals. The SG circular economy proposals include 31 current and future proposals up to and beyond 2025 which will have an impact on the councils waste management, e.g. Food Waste review, Scottish Deposit Return scheme, Garden Waste
Page 3
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS collections and future statutory recycling targets being applied to councils. Pre-treatment derogation works are ongoing. Officers are engaging with the west area waste group every quarter which includes, Inverclyde, West Dunbartonshire, East and South Ayrshire Councils, Argyll and Bute Council and Zero Waste Scotland. Discussion is ongoing regarding post landfill ban solutions. W2 – Promote the Waste Hierarchy through community Education (L) Roads and Amenity Services Evidence of community Education Not secured New Web content and Education materials for Primary and Secondary Schools were developed and delivered to online Education Environment Summit October 21 and the COP 26 Event on the 6th November 21. W3 – Reduce Council use of disposable and single use plastics across all departments and settings (L) Procurement and Commercial Services, all Council Services Adoption of new working practices and procurement No specific funding in place, research required to impact on operation costs A report on Single Use Plastic went to the Policy and Resources Committee on 9 December 2021, and the following recommendations were approved:
Page 4
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS Note and consider that the various Services that currently purchase SUP products consider whether these products are essential or if there is a potential alternative that would meet the Service requirements, prior to orders being placed via PECOS or contacting the Procurement, Commercial and Contract Management Team (PCCMT) for a procurement process to be carried out. Note and consider that the Sustainable Procurement Policy will be updated to reflect the Climate Change Board desire to limit SUP where possible – proposed wording has been included in the current draft version for 2022/23, and will be
Page 5
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS updated as follows in the final version: “To provide procurement support to any strategic decisions taken by the Council in relation to the usage of Single Use Plastic products and their recyclability.” Note and consider that the Commodity Sourcing Strategy templates used for Regulated Procurements be updated to include a question regarding SUP Changes in legislation were brought into force by the Scottish Government on the 1st June 2022 restricting single-use plastic cutlery, plates, straws, drink stirrers and balloon sticks, expanded polystyrene food containers and expanded polystyrene cups and other beverage containers, as well as all
Page 6
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS products made of oxo- degradable plastic. Some products already changed and others under review. W4 – Extend and explore pre- ordering for school food to reduce food waste (L) Commercial Services and Education Evidence of extension of pre-ordering & food waste reduction No specific funding in place, research required to impact on operation costs National solution also being looked at with Scotland Excel and following universal roll out of Free School Meals for primary school children. Project Team currently implementing this, with full project end date estimated as March 2023. E1 – Deliver Renewable Sourcing Strategy 2 (L) Commercial Services Adoption of Strategy RSS2 consultancy work funding to be confirmed; expectation is that project implementation will be through combinations of prudential borrowing (subject to business case approvals) and/or external funding. RSS2 next stage development work includes specification development and preparation of invitation to tender for specialist consultancy support. Current work in progress; tender issue in FQ2- 3 2022/2023 expected. Whilst this larger procurement exercise is conducted, a Quick Quote was developed in conjunction with Procurement colleagues to secure consultancy
Page 7
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS support to assist with immediate renewable consultancy requirements (including development of items E2 and E3). This interim contract has now expired but existing commissioned work- streams will be concluded. E2 – Delivery of Non-domestic Energy Efficiency Framework (NDEEF) Projects (L) Commercial Services Evidence of delivery of projects Project development work is funded by combinations of the Scottish Government and the procured provider (costs absorbed within the tender process). Funding for project implementation will come from Council approved capital allocations: Climate Change 20/21 - £500K Climate Change 21/22 - £600K Asset Sustainability – circa £100K NDEEF Energy Performance Contract was signed on 16 July 2021. The original NDEEF mini project list has either been installed or deleted by variation. Outstanding works are now effectively those mini projects introduced to the overall project to replace deletions. Main items outstanding are a couple of pv installations (including Kilmory Castle ground array which requires planning approval) and a full site solution for Cardross PS (including heating as a mandated item, solar pv, LED lighting). Balance of works are expected to conclude circa October 2022. The following renewable solutions are
Page 8
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS being/have been deliveredwithin the NDEEF package: Solar PV: Kilmory Gardens, Cardross PS, Blackhill Depot, Rothesay Pool, GWIT Centre, Lochgilphead RC, Kintyre House. Air Source Heat Pump: Manse Brae Roads Office, Lochgilphead CEC, Strachur Primary School, Lochgilphead RC, Arrochar Primary School. In addition to the above, the procurement sourcing strategy for the next batch of sites, using designation NDEEF2, is under way. E3 – Delivery of additional solar installations at Council assets (L) Commercial Services Evidence of delivery of projects Consultancy work funding to be confirmed; expectation is that project implementation will be through combinations of prudential borrowing (subject to business case approvals) and/or external funding. Solar pv Options (initial feasibility work completed for circa 9 sites) – some opportunities absorbed within NDEEF (Ref item E2) as project replacements due to accommodation reviews. A ‘mop up’ of remaining project prospects intended to be market tested as a component within an upcoming solar pv
Page 9
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS maintenance contract (FQ2-3 2022/2023). E4 – Delivery of Water Efficiency Audits across our Estate (L) Commercial Services Evidence of delivery of projects Feasibility work being absorbed within existing approved budgets. Individual works items are generally small scale and it is proposed to utilise existing approved budgets where possible. Significant Council wide asset verification exercise and ensuring water use minimised. This project will continue throughout calendar year 2022 when a case study will be prepared to demonstrate the range of tasks being undertaken and to convey the reduction in water consumption (with carbon emissions reduction) and costs arising from this already successful project. E5– Delivery of Energy Efficiency Scotland Programme (L) Housing Services, Registered Social Landlords Evidence of delivery of projects Funding amounts are determined by localised factors and is paid as a proportion of the Scottish Governments’ Heat In Buildings Strategy Works which required Contractors to enter housholds were delayed by continued Covid-19 restrictions but were able to be replaced by external measures ensuring the programme continued.The Scottish Government have confirmed an award of £2,011,323for the 2022/23Area Based Scheme.
Page 10
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS E6 – Complete LED streetlight replacement programme (L) Roads and Infrastructure Services Evidence of delivery of projects Fully funded through prudential borrowing We are in the process of appointing contractors to upgrade Street Lighting in the Lorn Area where we are still to replace approx. 1100 no. Luminaires. The Council has 14442 streetlights in total so carbon emissions have already been greatly reduced by the LED Upgrade Project. 2020/21 figures were CO2 Totals 889 tonnes, this has been reducing year on year, back in 2015/16 figures were CO2 Totals 3140 tonnes. The last of the projects installation / upgrade phases will be completed in August/September 2022. E7 – Continue support of ABRA and review Renewable Energy Strategy annually (L) Economic Development Evidence of delivery of projects Officer resource to support currently funded Work to support ABRA ongoing. ABRA exhibited at All Energy in May 2022. Current ongoing project by SSE Networks for renewal of powerlines between Inveraray and Crossaig. Possible extension being discussed. Work commenced on outline business case for progressing
Page 11
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS Islay Energy System work through the Rural Growth Deal. Islay announced as one of the Carbon Neutral Islands being progressed by the Scottish Government which is expected to complement this work. E8 – Continue support for offshore development of renewables (L) Economic Development Evidence of delivery of projects (expected late 2020s/early 2030s) Officer resource to support currently funded Offshore wind allocation off Islay is confirmed in Marine Plan. Scottish Power Renewables have secured an option on the site through the Scotwind Leasing Process. The Crown Estate Scotland is expected to launch Innovation and Targeted Oil and Gas (INTOG) leasing in August 2022 which could allow seabed rights for small scale (less than 100MW) innovation projects. T1 – Develop a Fleet Replacement Strategy supportive of fuel efficient, electric and hybrid vehicles (L) Roads and Infrastructure Services Adoption of Strategy Part for current financial year The Strategy is complete, final review will take place to ensure the 2025 legislative changes are included. The council have introduced hybrid and electric vehicles to the Fleet. The
Page 12
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS council operates 14% of its Fleet with the new technology. T2 – Develop a vehicle routing system that will reduce road miles for operations (L) Roads and Infrastructure Services Evidence of delivery of projects Part for current financial year The Council went to tender earlier this year for route optimisation and had a number of bidders. Officers have gone through the selection process and a preferred bidder has been chosen and their bid is within the budget available. Arrangements are being made for a demo from the preferred bidder and subject to that being successful should be moving towards a contract award in early course T3 – Develop an electric vehicle infrastructure strategy (L) Roads and Infrastructure Services Evidence of delivery of projects Part for current financial year The development of the EV network is funded by external grant monies from Transport Scotland, and the costs of developing the strategy in terms of staff time are covered via existing budgets Ultimately the cost recovery model Good progress has been made with the Council’s EVC strategy. Charging has been in place for over a year now and the fees appear to be covering the council’s costs although there have been some problems with cash flow from the new national back office supplier – this is an issue being experienced by all local authorities and something we are picking up as a group. In
Page 13
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS terms of public use, this continues to increase and while there have naturally been some queries and complaints about the introduction and operation of charging, these have been minimal. The future installation/expansion plan – specific sites and high level criteria – has been to public consultation (this was pushed back slightly in the programme due to the local government election and pre-election restrictions). The main headline from the consultation is that 75% of those responding support the expansion strategy. With the draft expansion plan in place we are working with Scottish Futures Trust/Transport Scotland and with the aid of grant monies going through a procurement process to appoint a consultant who will financially model/estimate site works costs so we then have a clear
Page 14
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS picture on a site by site basis of likely costs which will then inform any future funding applications and should ultimately streamline that process. The Scottish Government has published a draft vision for EVC development which, among other things, includes a number of options for local authorities to consider in their own expansion plans, from a concession model to public private partnership to local authority-only plans. We are currently analysing these different models and how they would or could apply in our context. When the above workstreams are completed we will be in a strong position to deliver on the 55 sites outlined in our expansion plan and to apply for the new Scottish Government fund when it comes online. Officers are also working with HiTRANS on their FASTER programme which had
Page 15
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS identified eight sites in Argyll and Bute for installations. With the rising costs of construction etc, the original scope across the region was considered to be unaffordable and we are working with HiTRANS, Western Isles and Highland to revise that scope to take advantage of the funding available T4 – Support Digital by Default theme Service Review & Recovery Plan to reduce need to travel All Council Departments Evidence of delivery of projects Part for current financial year Council is adopting ‘Our Modern Workspace’ programme and Digital First approach as services change and evolve post pandemic. T5 – Develop new active travel plans for Council buildings and our towns (L) Economic Development Evidence of delivery of projects Part for current financial year No active travel funding is provided by Council. External competitive challenge funds are time consuming to secure and work has to be shaped to fit with external funders aspirations and requirements. However, at present these are the only available source(s) of potential funding to deliver active travel improvements. The purpose of active travel plans, for buildings or towns, is to help direct and implement change to encourage and make it as easy as possible for individuals, businesses and visitors to choose to walk, cycle or take public transport for journeys. Increasing activity and reducing sedentary behaviour has significant health benefits and can increase accessibility to
Page 16
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS essential services, education, employment, retail and leisure. Walking and cycling are lower cost travel modes and, if they are a viable option, can help households reduce their reliance on private cars, particularly multiple car households. No Council funding is currently expended on genuine Active Travel work, with all costs, including internal staff costs (1.3FTE), having to be funded via successfully securing external challenge funds. As all active travel work is currently reliant on securing external funding, therefore the projects which are progressed are those which can successfully secure external challenge funding. Council Staff Travel Plan: The Staff Travel Plan will focus on measures to make it easier and preferable for staff to choose to walk, cycle, use public transport or car share to commute to work or for work journeys, or use economical
Page 17
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS Council vehicles for work journeys. The travel plan should encourage staff to choose the most economical and least environmentally damaging travel mode. Engagement of services which manage staff in building and/or council buildings is essential to creating deliverable and effective travel plans for Council staff. This includes Estates, HR, SMT and building users. It is recommended that work on the Council Staff Travel Plan is commenced after a decision has been made on future staff working patterns and office rationalisation as these will have a significant impact on the Council Staff and their travel. There is currently no funding secured to enable this work to be progressed. Active Travel Plans for Towns: There are Active Travel Plans in place for the main towns in Argyll and Bute, albeit some
Page 18
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS are now quite historic. The town Active Travel Plans focus on identifying potential active travel route networks for key towns. These provide a framework for the development of new active travel routes, which will enable and encourage residents, businesses and visitors to choose to travel more actively. No funding is currently secured to enable the Active Travel Plans for towns to be updated. Argyll and Bute Active Travel Strategy: It is recommended the Committee instruct Officers to develop an Argyll and Bute Active Travel Strategy and present it to full Council for approval within 18 months of Committee instruction. The Active Travel Strategy would provide the overarching context for the Council to support and promote active travel across the Council area.
Page 19
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS No funding is currently secured to enable the Active Travel Strategy to be developed. PA1 – Review Council Flooding & Coastal Protection Policy (L) Roads and Infrastructure Services Review of policy No specific funding in place, research required to impact on operation costs Reviews are in process. PA2 – Review Council Sustainable Procurement Policy (L) Procurement Review of policy No specific funding in place, research required to impact on operation costs This policy is reviewed on an annual basis. OFF1 – Develop opportunities for Carbon Offsetting with ACT and partners (L) Climate Change Board, ACT and partners Delivery of projects Limited funding via ACT for existing projects ACT have completed Phase 1 of native woodland planting on Argyll and Bute Council land around Kilmory, under compensatory planting agreement with SSEN. 22 hectares now completed, with deer management and follow up programme in place. Phase 2 planting scheduled for winter 22/23. ACT have also cleared Invasive Rhododendron ponticum from 18 hectares of native woodland around Kilmory with support from the Nature Restoration Fund 21/22. ACT and SSEN are discussing futher non-
Page 20
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS compensatory planting, with potential for Carbon Credits. Argyll and Bute Council Policy and Resources Committee have supported this proposal. ACT’s peatland restoration project CANN concludes in September ’22 with over 500 hectares of peatland improved, two Conservation Action Plans and 4 -years of endangered species monitoring and surveys being completed. ACT have secured support for a follow on project, restoring peatland and building on community resilience and capacity. ACT will be supported by Esmee Fairbairn Foundation, Peatland Action (NatureScot) and are in discussion with Islay distilleries to design a sustained programme of investment. All of ACT staff are now Carbon Literacy Trained, and ACT is registered as a Carbon Literate Organisation, and is now accredited as a Carbon Literacy Training provider. 68
Page 21
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS community members have been trained via the ACTNow project. 92 tonnes of CO2 have been saved through ACTNow’s bike refurbishment project, and 23 good as new bikes have been gifted to community members in Mid- Argyll. 3700 kg of food has been saved from landfill and redistributed to Mid-Argyll residents, and 264 volunteer hours have been recorded over 40 events run by ACT with a climate focus. A legacy of the ACTNow project is the ACT Hub at Blarbuie offering tools and equipment to help community members to reuse, repair and recycle. A follow on project is now in place, funded by Smarter Choices, Smarter Places via Argyll and Bute Council, including cycle and ebike training and workshops. ACT partnered with Cove Park artists residency to become one of 7 Climate Beacons for COP26, which used Argyll’s Rainforest as its inspiration for
Page 22
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS work with film-makers, school children from Lochgilphead and Helensburgh, and artists. The project was supported by Creative Carbon Scotland. COMM1- Develop and deliver Communications Plan to support Decarbonisation Plan (L) Climate Change Board and Communicatio ns Team Delivery of Communications Plan Part of Communications Support External communications We continue to promote actions the council is taking, and actions that others can take, to develop climate- friendly Argyll and Bute. For example: Promotion of EV charging points consultation on social media, press release, website and weekly news round-up. Infrastructure plans, including £170k investment in low emission council vehicles Green flag awards in schools Promotion of outdoor nurseries
Page 23
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS Reinforcement of climate-friendly Argyll and Bute brand eg with Waste Strategy Manager vacancy, and reduce your food waste promotion Delivery of school meals using drone Promotion of Community Development climate proof training Islay plans to become carbon neutral by 2040 Pippa’s podcast on social media about how to save the planet and your purse Home Energy Efficiency Programme Carr Gomm staff using bikes instead of cars Lochdonhead won Woodland Trust Green Trees Award
Page 24
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS COMM2 - Engage with community and partners and deliver Climate Change Directory for our region (L) Community Planning and Development Team Delivery of engagement map In place until end of financial year Web page is active and live https://www.argyll- bute.gov.uk/cpp-climate- change Community Groups and initiatives mapped and promoted on website. Input to and reporting back from the Community Planning Partnership Climate Change Group. Regular update of webpage directory. Ongoing dialogue with Community Planning Partnership. 2 x Meetings have taken place with Argyll and Bute Branch of National Farmers Union (NFU) and workshop currently being scoped out to explore Climate Change opportunists across the Agricultural and Land Use Sector. Headline topics likely to include :- Sustainable Upland Farming, Planting for Carbon Sequestration, Dairy Industry and Suckling Beef.
Page 25
ACTION LEAD (L) AND PARTNERS TARGET or MILESTONE FUNDING COMMENTS COMM3 - Monitor the delivery of actions in the Climate Change Action Plan and review in 2024 (L) Climate Change Board Review of this plan by December 2024 Monitored through Tracker to be submitted quarterly to Policy & Resources Committee. Completed – next review Dec 2024
Page 26
APPENDIX B – Climate Change Case Studies CASE STUDY 1 – ISLAY CARBON NEUTRAL ISLAND Green light for Islay’s carbon neutral future (argyll-bute.gov.uk) – 19 May 2022 A reduction in fossil fuels and increased use of renewable energy sources – these are just some of the ambitions for Islay’s carbon neutral future. Islay is one of six Scottish islands, announced by the Scottish Government to become fully carbon neutral by 2040. The initiative is part of the Carbon Neutral Islands project, aimed at supporting islands to achieve their carbon neutral ambitions. Argyll and Bute Council recommended Islay as an ideal candidate for inclusion due to the mix of potential energy sources on the island including offshore wind proposals and potential tidal schemes. In addition, there are opportunities to capture carbon through peatland restoration on the island. CASE STUDY 2- PROMOTION OF DE-CARBONISATION PLAN Council takes steps to achieve net zero target (argyll-bute.gov.uk) – 9 Dec 2021 Argyll and Bute Council re-affirmed its long-term commitment to tackling the climate emergency and achieving its ambitious net zero emissions targets. The latest version of the council’s Decarbonisation Plan was approved in December 2021. This sets out the council’s three-year strategy for tackling climate change and achieving net zero emissions across Argyll and Bute. Argyll and Bute is a leader in wind and hydro power production and its sparse population, high forest, peatland cover and a low number of polluting sources means it is already one of the lowest net producers of carbon in the UK and almost carbon neutral, far ahead of most other regions. CASE STUDY 3 – MAKING OUR FLEET GREENER Installation of Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargers for Council Fleet Vehicles - Case Study (June 2022) Introduction Argyll and Bute Council has been offered grant funding, through the Energy Savings Trust Switched on Fleets programme to procure a number of electric/hybrid vehicles and charging points for use by Council fleet vehicles. This case study provides a high level of information in respect of the process involved from securing grant funding through to eventual installation of the funded EV charging points. Description Joint working arrangements were agreed between the Council’s Fleet Management and Property Services personnel late in 2020 to make a 20/21 funding application for a number of charging points up to a value of £50K. Due to deadlines, a quick turnaround was required to undertake the main tasks: Establish spare electric capacity in buildings (timelines precluded new connections). Match buildings with spare electric capacity to demand for EV vehicle usage; spread across area. Arrive at list of locations with EV sizes/quantities dictated by available electrical capacities. Specification drawn up considering SwitchedonFleets requirements also.
Page 27
Procurement exercise undertaken using local term contractors, with them engaging specialist sub-contract. Application for funding request made to SwitchedonFleets with later request for additional funding; all approved. Works orders placed with local term contractors. Specialist sub-contractor surveys identified need to vary original intent with additional costs. Works completed and paid for 2021; grant funding received. EV registered with ChargePlaceScotland and made available for use. Final list of sites with newly installed EV detailed in table below. Site Town No. Connection Points Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre Helensburgh 4 @22kW each (dual free standing units) Corran Halls Oban 4 @22kW each (dual free standing units) Baliscate Depot Tobermory 1 @ 7kW (single wall mounted unit) High Street Depot Rothesay 1 @ 7kW (single wall mounted unit) Blackhill Depot Helensburgh 4 @22kW each (dual free standing units) Note: charging times vary depending on vehicle and connection point. Images of free standing dual EV charging units, with marked parking bays, installed at Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre CASE STUDY 4 - NON-DOMESTIC ENERGY EFFICIENCY FRAMEWORK (NDEEF) PROJECT - (June 2022) Introduction Carbon emissions associated with the Council’s estate and buildings accounts for over 20% of the Council’s overall carbon footprint. These emissions arise from use of electricity, gas, heating oil and water in premises. Switching to more efficient technologies not only benefits both energy consumption and energy cost but also improves ‘green credentials’. Against this background, Argyll and Bute Council have utilised the Scottish Government Non-Domestic Energy Efficiency Framework (NDEEF) to deliver a range of Energy Conservation Measures (ECM’s) at 11 No. Council properties. The delivery of these ECM’s not only reduces energy costs but also contributes to the Council meeting Climate Change targets. This case study
Page 28
provides a high level of information in respect of the process involved from project inception through to eventual installation of the ECM’s. Description In late 2020 approximately £1.2Million of viable project work was identified across 11 No. assorted council premises delivering anticipated annual savings of £123k which represents a payback of 10.2 years. A Commodity Sourcing Strategy for Energy Efficient Solutions was conducted and the use of the NDEEF was selected as the preferred delivery mechanism. A DMT Paper to utilise the NDEEF was approved in mid 2021 and a tender exercise was subsequently carried out. ECM installation works commenced in late 2021 and will be complete by July 2022. The following properties were selected for the NDEEF on the basis of perceived opportunities for energy efficiency savings and because previously identified capital works to replace the oil fired heating systems were required to be delivered at some of the locations: Site Town Manse Brae Roads Office Lochgilphead Lochgilphead Community Education Centre Lochgilphead Kilmory Castle Lochgilphead Riverside Leisure Centre Dunoon Lochgilphead Learning Resource Centre Lochgilphead Rothesay Leisure Pool Rothesay The Moat Centre Rothesay Kintyre House Campbeltown Graham Williamson IT Centre Helensburgh Arrochar Primary School Arrochar Strachur Primary School Strachur Works content included the introduction of energy efficient LED lighting, improved heating and ventilating controls, installation of air source heat pumps and solar PV. A full list of the ECM’s selected is included below: Annual Saving ECM kWh CO2 (tonnes) £ LED Lighting Upgrade 225,968 62.7 27,521 Solar PV 192,140 53.3 22,241 High Efficiency Air Handling Unit 226,000 41.6 4,475 Building Management System (BMS) Optimisation 237,343 69.1 17,865 Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) 420,842 105 17,704 Boiler Optimiser 233,588 42.9 4,625 Refrigeration Optimiser 7,980 2.2 862 IT Server Room Cooling Upgrade 111,813 31 13,698 Swimming Pool Pump Control 70,300 19.5 9,139 Electronic Thermostatic Radiator Valves 5,800 1.8 201 Pipework Insulation 23,292 1.7 1,413 Air Conditioning System (A/C) Optimiser 29,674 8.2 3,858
Page 29
Images of ASHP at Arrochar PS and Strachur PS Image of Solar PV at Kintyre House, Campbeltown. Next Steps A second NDEEF project is planned for commencement in 2023. It is anticipated that it will be of a similar size and scale to the current NDEEF project. Preliminary steps are underway to develop and refine a list of buildings for inclusion in the project.
Page 30
Useful Links Non-domestic energy efficiency framework over £1m projects 2020-2024 - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) Image of free standing dual EV charging unit installed at Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre with instructions for use; Image of single wall mounted EV charging unit installed at High Street Depot, Rothesay. Next Steps Similar joint working arrangements were agreed to make a 21/22 funding application for a number of charging points (value £33.4K). Local term contractors have again been appointed to undertake works which are scheduled for implementation in 2022. Planned additional EV chargers are detailed in table below: Site Town No. Connection Points Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre Helensburgh 2 @22kW each (dual free standing units) Jacksons Quarry Depot Oban 2 @22kW each (dual free standing units) A financial/budgetary reconciliation is required as the use of buildings electricity for vehicle charging replaces previous vehicle fossil fuel use. Useful Links Switched On Scotland Phase Two: An Action Plan For Growth (transport.gov.scot) j457836-06 | Transport Scotland CASE STUDY 5 - RENEWABLE SOURCING STRATEGY - (June 2022) Introduction Scotland has achieved many milestones in renewable energy, particularly in wind energy generation. Renewable energy is essential to the future of our planet and Scotland has already carved a place in the forefront of the power revolution. It is now a global leader in sourcing electricity from its substantial natural resources. This case study provides a high level of information in respect of some of the work undertaken by Argyll and Bute Council in assessing the optimal opportunities for installation of renewable technologies through to eventual installation of same. Renewable energy will continue to play a
Page 31
central role in meeting both Scotland’s and Argyll and Bute Council’s target of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. Description Argyll and Bute Council, in conjunction with a specialist consultant, has assessed the bulk of its estate (over 1,100no. land/property assets) as part of the Council’s Renewables Sourcing Strategy (RSS1). This strategic assessment included evaluation of mature renewable technologies in conjunction with a screening of the Council’s land/property asset information to identify and rank (using key benefits criteria) the most appropriate renewable energy installations. This strategic assessment and ranking has ensured that projects are prioritised, avoiding a potential ‘scattergun’ approach. All of the most viable projects (summarised herein) have now been delivered. Projects have been funded on a ‘spend to save’ basis and have accessed supportive UK Government funding such as Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) and Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). Consequently, Argyll and Bute Council now has 13no. biomass installations, with installed capacity of circa 3.2MW, using combinations of wood pellet and locally sourced wood chip for fuel. A further 140kW biomass boiler was integrated into the recently constructed Mull Progressive Care facility, a joint project between West Highland Housing Association, National Health Service and Argyll and Bute Council. Image of off-site manufactured biomass boiler-house installed at Ardrishaig Primary School and some of the roof mounted solar pv panels installed at Hermitage Primary School in Helensburgh. To provide a sense of scale, Argyll and Bute Council has steadily reduced its heating oil consumption over the last 15 years by approximately 70% (from circa 23 Million kWh of oil per annum to circa 7 Million kWh per annum) largely through fuel conversions to biomass/gas fuel sources with lower cost and carbon emissions. Despite electrical grid constraints, Argyll and Bute Council has also installed around 1.1MW of solar photovoltaic panels across 19no. sites, mainly on school buildings. A particular
Page 32
challenge that was overcome included the need to make contractual provision for renewable installations on PFI/NPDO schools. Fortunately, all parties cooperated to ensure successful project delivery alongside existing school contract arrangements. A single 60kW wind turbine has also been installed on a landfill site on the Isle of Mull, named ‘Miss Hoolie’ by local school children. Images of 60kW wind turbine at Glengorm landfill site on the Isle of Mull taken at the time of the ‘Miss Hoolie’ naming ceremony. Next Steps Given the deemed success of the RSS1 and subsequent technological advancement, political landscape change, alternative funding stream availability etc, Argyll and Bute Council is currently working towards a second phase of whole portfolio renewables assessment (RSS2). This is identified as a target in the Climate Change Action Plan which is an integral component of the Argyll and Bute Council Decarbonisation Plan. CASE STUDY 6 - CIRRICULUM FOR EXCELLENCE Curriculum for Excellence sets expectations for the teaching and learning climate change and climate action within the experiences and outcomes and under the umbrella of Learning for Sustainability. There is a wide variety of climate action activities and projects throughout education establishments in Argyll and Bute. In a recent survey (May 2022) of schools in Argyll and Bute, we received 22 responses. Most schools have studied Climate Change within the past 3 years, use outdoor learning regularly, grow their own vegetables and have a litter campaign. Almost half of them have achieved the Green Flag, from Eco-schools, in the past 3 years, with at least 2 reporting their 7th Green flag achievement. Other projects include: The Big Wheel and Walk (national competition organised by SUSTRANS which is a fortnight of walking or cycling to school), The Queen’s Green Canopy: national tree planting, RSPB Big Birdwatch, John Muir Award, RHET Royal Highland Educational Trust (food and farming projects).
Page 33
The following 7 case studies are some examples of good practice in Argyll and Bute schools. CASE STUDY 7: SCHOOLS CLEAN AIR DAY Rhunahaorine Primary School On Thursday 16th June the children from Rhunahaorine Primary participated in Clean Air Day, the UK’s largest campaign on air pollution run by the charity Environmental Protection Scotland (EPS). This is the third year the children have taken part. All of the children did a traffic survey. The school is on the A83 which is the main road on the Kintyre Peninsula leading to Campbeltown. As well as helping the children think about air pollution infants were introduced to tally marking and the older children produced more complex graphs with their results. The pupils are continuing to embrace the anti-pollution theme with activity colouring books sent from EPS. These promote walking, cycling, electric cars and caring for nature. CASE STUDY 8: YOUNG STEM LEADERS AND AMBASSADORS Kilcreggan Primary School Young STEM Leader Programme As part of earning their Young STEM Leader 2 award, pupils decided to hold their own climate conference in school, presenting to all other classes. As part of this, they created working models of various renewable energies and also used models and demonstrations to demonstrate the impacts of climate change and global warming. They also did comprehensive research to create impactful, informative PowerPoints to accompany their demonstrations. We used the STEM Ambassador programme to host visitors virtually to all classes across the school. We had renewable energy engineers, civil engineers and climate scientists and also Polar explorer Craig Mathieson who does a lot of climate action work. Kilcreggan STEM Google Site Pupils have recorded and shared much of their learning on our STEM Google site, visible to all staff and pupils. CASE STUDY 9: ECO-HOUSING PROJECT Kilcreggan Primary School The final project this year was a design challenge based on ECO housing. Pupils were researching the makeup of the Scottish landscape and how certain natural resources are used. To take this idea further they were presented with a brief to design an ECO friendly museum, which would celebrate the local surrounding environment while having as small a carbon footprint and energy consumption as possible. This was a great project where the
Page 34
pupils really outdid themselves. Again this referred to the central themes of sustainability, the global goals and also climate change. CASE STUDY 10: TREEMAZON Barcaldine Primary School In response to COP26, learning about Climate Change and taking part in the Argyll and Bute Education Climate Summit, pupils from Barcaldine Primary School decided to take action. Their proposal was to set up a tree nursery using locally sourced seed. After researching how to collect, store and sow seeds, pupils and families gathered seeds over a few weeks in autumn. Species included oak, rowan, hazel and birch. Growing beds and pots were prepared by the children and protective boxes, to keep unwanted mice out, were built by parents. Seeds were sown and labels made for each garden plot. Over winter and spring, we waited, and watered, and waited, and weeded… and waited. The children took responsibility to care for the nursery and created a rota of jobs. They suggested and voted for a name for our nursery and designed logo. The chosen name was ‘Treemazon’, which makes a lovely connection to our own local Atlantic Rainforest. Finally, in late spring, growth was spotted. We now have a very fine crop of oak seedlings, a few hazels and the birch are just appearing. Once the seedlings are more established we plan to share them with the community. We also have a contact regenerating a woodland croft and plan to get involved with that next year. Then of course, in autumn, we will start collecting seeds again, and expand our business further. CASE STUDY 11: CLIMATE ACTION AND THE WORLD OF WORK Bowmore Primary School COP26 in 2021 provided the perfect hook for an introduction to teaching climate change and linked appropriately to our action plan for our next Eco School’s Scotland Green Flag award. By teaching the children about the goals selected at COP26 the upper primary children were introduced to the impact and benefits of transport on our environment, food miles, shopping
Page 35
locally and how to reduce our carbon footprint. The IDL was social studies, topical science and literacy focused. We took part in Google Meets on offer from our local authority to learn on peat restoration projects and why this is relevant to our local community and environment. Our world of work and distilling topic in term 4 April 2022 then retrieved all of the knowledge learned in the previous IDL as the pupils understood the use of peat in many local distilleries used to make whisky which our island is famous for. The final presentation and assessment was a talking and listening focused based round designing and creating a sustainable distillery cooperatively in terms of the resources water, peat usage, electricity and using locally sources items to reduce impact on the environment. The pupils presented their work and applied their knowledge of the learning which took place on their visit to Bowmore distillery and in class to explain roles, responsibilities, skills and scientific processes for each job in the areas of the distillery. CASE STUDY 12: PORT ELLEN DENIM Port Ellen Primary School This year the whole school did an in-depth piece of interdisciplinary learning on the topic of Climate Change linked to the COP26 conference. Part of this was looking at the impact we were having on the Earth in terms of it’s resources and how the way we lived was detrimental to the environment. Children did their own carbon footprints and looked at the Earth Overshoot Day…we were all horrified! Part of our learning was about waste linked to fashion. We had a contact at Arkdefo, a company that reuse denim, and this inspired us in designing with fabrics/denim, learning practical craft skills and developing an understanding of how we can live more sustainably. CASE STUDY 13: FOOD SHARE WITH THE COOP Inveraray Primary School We have been an Eco School for many years and interested in environmental projects. The Food share project has been a positive addition to the work that we are currently doing. The food Waste work has involved combining a number of elements in our school:- 1. We have introduced the Sustainable Development Goals as part of our every day school work, linking what we do in class to the Sustainable Development Goals. 2. Our Eco topics are “Food and the Environment” and “Zero Hunger”. We have been learning about food labelling, the importance of local produce, how to reduce packaging and where our food comes. We have raised awareness of these elements through a One Planet Picnic where all pupils and staff in our school brought in a packed lunch with minimal packaging, where possible locally sourced and enough food so we did not have to bin any.
Page 36
3. We have had support from the ACT Now project to set up a system with the Co-op where any ambient food waste is collected from the Co op and distributed on a Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. As children have been learning about food waste and the need to reduce this we have used this food in a number of ways:- Early Level Class – learning about food by using items in their play, mud kitchen and tough trays. Helping to prepare snack and incorporating the fruit and vegetables supplied. Primary 1 – 7 – Food is distributed to all classes. Some is used as part of a class snack and some is taken home to be used at home. All children have access to the food. We have kept a tally chart of number of items we have received from the Coop and the Eco Committee have helped to count and distribute the food to the classes. In the next school year we will start weighing the amount of food we receive. Act Now have also funded workshops for us with Highland Herbal to show the children how to preserve foods. Our children are more aware of where their food comes from. They can talk about labelling, packaging and food preservation. The younger children have been exposed to a wide variety of food in their play and can talk about colour, textures and names of different fruit and vegetables. They have also tasted a wide variety of fruit and vegetables. Our older children understand the issues in using single use plastics and the importance of reducing waste around the planet. The Co op Food share Scheme is a great venture, it genuinely prevents good food going to waste and offers it back to the local community. We are very grateful to Inveraray Coop for
Page 37
their support and look forward to continuing this work in the future. We are in the processing of building a Community Garden and we hope to continue developing children’s knowledge and experience of where our food comes from, how to grow food and how to prepare and preserve food. CASE STUDY 14: TREE PLANTING PARTNERSHIP WITH SSEN TRANSMISSION ACT-ing in partnership to support Scotland’s rainforest SSEN Transmission and leading community and conservation organisation, Argyll and the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust (ACT), and Argyll and Bute Council have joined forces to help deliver SSEN Transmission’s compensatory tree planting commitments and in doing so, help support and enhance Scotland’s rainforest in Argyll. Argyll's rainforest, also known as Atlantic woodland, temperate rainforest or Celtic rainforest, is a unique and rare habitat of ancient and native woodland, open glades, boulders, rocky cliffs and river gorges. Scotland is now the last stronghold for this habitat that was once widespread along the Atlantic coast of Europe. The mild, wet climate of the west coast of Scotland provides perfect growing conditions for this diverse habitat that supports a variety of plants and animals. The ground-breaking partnership will see ACT help deliver SSEN Transmission’s compensatory tree planting relating to its Inveraray-Crossaig transmission project, with the initial phase of planting underway on Argyll and Bute Council’s sites near Lochgilphead in Argyll. By planting native species, the planting will support local flora and fauna, creating natural habitats for native species to thrive, supporting SSEN Transmission’s commitments to deliver biodiversity net gain and compensatory planting on all its major projects. The planting will also create a natural asset for the local community to enjoy for generations to come, leaving a positive lasting legacy beyond SSEN Transmission’s primary objective of delivering a network for net zero emissions across the north of Scotland. The partnership was formally announced this week in Lochgilphead, with members of SSEN Transmission, ACT, and Argyll and Bute Council coming together to undertake some of the initial native species planting. Richard Baldwin, Head of Consenting and the Environment for SSEN Transmission, said:
Page 38
“I’m really excited about our partnership with ACT to deliver our compensatory planting for our Inveraray-Crossaig project. By working in partnership with local experts we can ensure our compensatory planting focusses on the right species, in the right locations, to deliver the right outcomes for the local communities in which we operate. “Argyll’s rainforests are a truly stunning and precious resource and we’re delighted to be playing a small part in helping ensure the long term sustainability of this nationally significant natural asset. You can’t help but be mesmerised when you first discover Argyll’s rainforest and ACT’s dedication and passion to protect and enhance this wonderful natural asset is great to be part of. “As we continue to deliver a network for net zero emissions across the north of Scotland, we are committed to doing so in a responsible and sustainable way, helping sustain and enhance the local habitats in which we operate. We look forward to building on this initial planting project with ACT and other community organisations across the north of Scotland, leaving a positive legacy for generations to come.” Ross Lilley, ACT Chairman, said: “This partnership with SSEN Transmission and Argyll and Bute Council has been a very significant one for ACT as we’ve been able to create new native woodland sites which is an important part of Argyll’s Rainforest Strategy. “By improving existing woodland, as we have recently done at Kilmory and Glenan woods with extensive Rhododendron ponticum removal, and gradually linking up the clusters of Rainforest with new planting, we can create corridors for the rare species that are unique to our Rainforest habitat to thrive. “Argyll is incredibly fortunate to be home to more than half of Scotland’s rainforest and to ensure that it is safeguarded, we will need a partnership approach from businesses, communities and agencies. This agreement between SSEN Transmission, ACT and Argyll and Bute Council is a great example of what can be achieved.” Ross Mclaughlin, Head of Commercial Services at Argyll and Bute Council said: “It’s important that we take all steps we can to make day-to-day life in Argyll and Bute climate- friendly. We are pleased therefore to support this woodland conservation initiative. Becoming climate-friendly is about developing sustainable ways of living and working, to protect the planet on which we all depend for our future generations.” ENDS Notes to editors: Photographs will be available from 12 noon on Wednesday and will be circulated.
Page 39
ACT is a community-led organisation and registered charity, established in 2014. Their mission is to sustainably maintain, enhance and promote the coast and countryside of Argyll and the Isles. https://www.act-now.org.uk/ About SSEN Transmission SSEN Transmission, operating as Scottish Hydro Electric (SHE) Transmission plc, owns, operates and develops the high voltage electricity transmission system in the north of Scotland and remote islands. SSEN Transmission is part of SSE Group – the UK and Ireland’s clean energy champion. SSEN’s strategic priority is to enable the transition to a low carbon economy through building the transmission infrastructure necessary to connect and transport renewable energy. https://www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/ Ross McLaughlin ABC; Ross Lilley ACT; Richard Baldwin SSEN Transmission CASE STUDY 15: SCHOOL CLOTHING BANK The Council has been working with community groups and voluntary organisations across Argyll and Bute Council to launch phase 1 of the school clothing bank. The aim is that no child should feel like they are going to school in the wrong clothes. By the end of phase 2 in December 2022 we will be able to provide a good quality reused school uniform for every Early Learning Centre, Primary and Secondary school across Argyll and Bute. We are working with Helensburgh Parish Church, Kintyre Recycling Limited, Inspiralba, Dunoon Youth Centre Hub and Fyne Futures in the areas of Helensburgh, Dunoon and
Page 40
Rothesay to make the Clothing Bank happen. We have also had great engagement from schools and parent councils across these areas. The Clothing Bank will eventually cover urban and rural schools in those areas too. In Dunoon, Rothesay and Campbeltown the secondary schools are looking to use the project to create Social Enterprise opportunities for pupils in their schools. The Social Enterprise Academy will provide support to Rothesay Academy in looking at opportunities in this area to create a social enterprise. Over the summer and into August we will speak to schools in Mid Argyll, Oban, Lorn and all of the Islands as phase 2 of this roll out in order to ensure there is provision across the area for these services. We are currently developing our web content, e-form and a communication strategy to link the provision together. Finally we are looking for a brand name linking the uniform to climate change and saving the planet to really pull the project away from the stigma that surrounds clothing bank and anti-poverty. CASE STUDY 16: HOUSING SERVICES AND FUEL POVERTY Between 2018 and 2022, 909 households have received insulation measures through the Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme (ABS). Insulation measures make homes warmer, reduce energy bills and in turn fuel poverty, and decrease carbon emissions. As a result of installing insulation measures to 105 households in 2021/22, it is estimated that just short of 100 tonnes of carbon emissions were saved in that period alone. The Energy Efficient Scotland programme is an area based scheme, funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by Argyll and Bute Councils’ Home Energy Efficiency Project Team and will continue to run until at least 2024. The scheme offers insulation measures to private households and privately rented properties throughout Argyll and Bute. The scheme contributes to reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency of homes, as well as being part of the Scottish Government’s route map to an energy efficient Scotland. In 2021/22, Argyll and Bute Council continued to support Argyll Community Housing Association (ACHA) with their Warm Homes Project. In addition to previous years funding an additional £747,600 of funding was secured jointly by Argyll and Bute Council and the Scottish Government to install external wall insulation to eligible private homes in mixed tenure blocks. An additional 89 private owners were supported by receiving insulation. ACHA have also been administering a wider programme of the installation over 1000 air source heat pumps across Argyll and Bute throughout 2021/22. Through the Energy Efficiency Forum, Argyll and Bute Council will continue to support key partners on projects which will contribute to reducing carbon emissions. Through the Strategic Housing Investment Fund, Housing Association Partners are required to build properties to increasingly greener standards.
Page 41
No embedded text on this page.