Outstanding Energy Saving in Milton Keynes (Milton Keynes Liberal Democrats)

Milton Keynes Liberal Democrats <info@mk-libdems.co.uk>

Outstanding Energy Saving in Milton Keynes

November 1, 2009 9:07 PM

Milton Keynes has been described as "outstanding" in comparison to other local authorities in a report issued by the Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre for the South-East.

Much of this success is due to the Milton Keynes Carbon Offset Fund, which is funded by developers. Where a carbon neutral development is not achieved, developers contribute to the fund. The money is then used to reduce carbon emissions across Milton Keynes.

Since 2008, developers have paid over £400,000 into the fund. So far, it has been used to insulate existing older private homes and sheltered housing. Within the three months after the Council announced the fund would be used to bring down the cost of professionally installed insulation for local homeowners, over 2,000 residents were advised about the offer, and by June 2009 the 1,000th local property was insulated.

The Council's offer of £95 towards insulation still stands. Ring the energy team on 0800 8048 777 for further information.

Sheltered housing across the city is also being insulated with help from the fund. This will save the Council and its tenants over £17,500 per year. Around 190 tonnes less carbon dioxide will enter the atmosphere annually as a consequence, supporting the council's climate change programme.

Liberal Democrat councillor Mike Galloway, Milton Keynes Council's cabinet member responsible for growth, said: "This is great news for Milton Keynes. The Carbon Offset Fund gives more residents the opportunity to benefit directly from the area's development. On completion of work, residents' homes can be more comfortable - both warmer in winter and cooler in summer."