introduction
Since November 2007, we have managed a funded scheme for Islington Council to encourage the uptake of micro-generation and energy efficiency technologies in private housing. The scheme is part of Islington council's Climate Change Fund programme to raise awareness of these technologies, help tackle fuel poverty, reduce householder fuel bills and to save carbon.
challenge
The requirements of the project are for us to survey leads, produce a bespoke report for each householder and project manage the installation of the required technologies. From the beginning we have been heavily involved in the design of the scheme within Islington's parameters and have continued to be actively involved in improving the way the programme is run. A particular challenge for installing technologies in Islington is the high proportion of conservation areas. We have worked hard with both the planning and building control departments to get technologies installed. The sceme is currently in its second phase.
solution
Under the scheme designed by us in partnership with Islington, leads are sent to us by the Council in order to arrange a convenient time with the householder for a surveyor to carry out a short 45 minute feasibility survey of the property. The survey includes recording details of the heating system, levels of loft and cavity wall insulation and suitability of the property for the installation of micro-generation and energy efficiency technologies. Each householder then receives a detailed report giving our recommendations and showing estimated paybacks, annual/lifetime fuel bill savings and annual/lifetime carbon savings. Good communication channels have been set up between us, Islington and the householders to ensure that queries are dealt with quickly and effectively. If the householder wishes to proceed with the recommendations in the report, we project manages the whole of the works including:
- gaining any planning/building control permissions;
- effectively resolving any issues;
- streamlining the administrative process;
- conducting post work technical monitoring;
- conducting online customer satisfaction surveys.
Throughout the project management process, we have full control of
invoicing procedures to include the contractor, the householder,
any associated planning/building control fees and with Islington
Borough council.
outcome
By the end of the scheme it is estimated that 42 photovoltaic systems producing electricity and 51 solar hot water systems will be up and running saving in the region of 650 tonnes CO2 over the 25 year expected lifetime of the systems. In addition the scheme will save Islington residents in excess of 3 gigawatt hours of electricity. Phase 2 is expected to yield higher savings due to the inclusion of solid wall insulation in the scheme. Some householders are already selling their electricity back to the grid saving them further money.
"The solar panelling installed on our premises has proved a joy both financially and in terms of our house contributing something positive to combat global warming. The installation team were punctual, efficient and friendly and won my trust immediately. We were impressed with the service and wish all companies performed in such a way. It would make having building work a stress free zone." Judy Price, Islington Council Resident.
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