Renewable Technologies to Benefit Tenants in Scotland
All new West Dunbartonshire Council homes are set to see a range of renewable and sustainable technologies implemented as part of a commitment to reduce carbon emissions in the area. Housing Industry Leaders looks at how the technology will help to reduce fuel poverty.
All the new builds developed by West Dunbartonshire Council will continue to use renewable technologies such as solar roof panels where possible to harness energy from sunlight, directly benefiting the tenant by powering items in the home.
Heat pump systems, like the technology used by West Dunbartonshire Energy Centre, will also be installed to provide low-carbon energy and help to reduce fuel poverty.
In addition, each home is said to be highly insulated and airtight, requiring less energy to heat, resulting in lower utility bills for tenants.
Minimising Fuel Poverty Is Essential During The Cost Of Living Crisis
Councillor Craig Edward, Convener of the committee said: “To help West Dunbartonshire Council’s wider sustainable transition to net zero it is essential that we reconsider how best to heat our homes whilst simultaneously minimising fuel poverty in our communities.
“A reduction in energy will mean our homes are more efficient and affordable to run, with the elimination of fuel poverty.”
Making this commitment for all of our future housing developments will help ensure our residents live in a life-enhancing environment for many years to come.
Support will be given to expand the Council’s tree planting programme within all future housing developments so that communities are rich in biodiversity.
The Council has said that members were advised of plans to create a green workforce in the area by working with partners to identify upskilling and modern apprenticeship opportunities within the emerging technology sector.
Using Renewable Technologies Will Help The UK Reach Net Zero Targets
Councillor John Millar, Vice Convener added: “It is essential that as well as developing homes that are sustainable and help us work towards our carbon emission targets, that we develop a workforce to address labour shortages within the renewable sector, such as Solar Panel Maintenance Operatives.”
An investment in the creation of a Green Workforce will ensure that the journey to net zero will benefit the wider community and contribute to West Dunbartonshire Council’s economic sustainability.
National Housing Federation has revealed that if you include emissions from consumed electricity, residential housing is responsible for 22 per cent of all UK emissions and social housing contributes 10 per cent of this.
Therefore, it is essential that councils work towards becoming more sustainable by using renewable technologies so that the UK reaches its net zero targets.
