Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy Consultation launched by Scottish Borders Council
A public consultation has been launched on the first draft Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) and accompanying five-year Delivery Plan (2024-2029) for the Scottish Borders
The draft strategy outlines the long-term plan to make heating more eco-friendly in buildings across the region and to improve energy efficiency by combining existing energy reduction and affordable warmth plans.
The primary objectives of the Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) are to outline necessary alterations required in buildings to align with national and local goals, including achieving zero greenhouse gas emissions and addressing poor energy efficiency as a contributor to fuel poverty.
These objectives will be pursued by leveraging existing initiatives such as the Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme, which provides funding for energy efficiency upgrades in privately owned residences. Furthermore, the draft strategy endeavors to pinpoint crucial areas for heat decarbonization zones, detailing measures to decrease building emissions within each designated zone.
The accompanying delivery plan will concentrate on a five-year period spanning from 2024 to 2029, outlining actions, initiatives, and programs to support strategy implementation.
Councillor Jenny Linehan, Executive Member for Environment and Transport, said:
“The LHEES will be crucial in helping us meet national targets of reaching net zero emissions by 2045 and eliminating fuel poverty by 2040.
“The draft strategy presents our vision to increase the energy efficiency of local homes and buildings, offering affordable warmth with more decarbonised heat sources and in turn reducing our contributions to climate change.
“All buildings are covered within the plan and therefore this affects all residents throughout the region. It is important that local communities and stakeholders can have their say on the priorities outlined and how the actions will help to address issues and meet local needs.
“We are asking for everyone to take a few minutes and share their thoughts on the draft strategy and delivery plan, ensuring the priorities and actions proposed achieve the best outcome.”
Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation process and access further information on the draft LHEES. The consultation period extends until Friday, March 8, 2024.