Gloucestershire celebrates Recycling Fund with latest solar PV works
County council reveals how fund has put them in a better position to help meet its carbon neutral goals
Key support from Salix and Recycling Fund has put county council in strong position for future funding bids, says Gloucestershire facilities lead.
Meet Rachael Pryor, facilities manager and compliance lead at Gloucestershire County Council who highlights her work delivering energy efficiency works through the Recycling Fund.
In a brief video showcasing the Recycling Fund, Rachael hails the benefits of the scheme delivered by our teams at Salix.
Rachael says the organisation is pleased with how the funds have been used during 2024/25.
The council has tapped into the funds since 2009 and says 75% of the properties are now equipped with photovoltaic (PV) systems under the latest round.
Despite some building-related issues causing slight delays, Rachael says the council aims to complete all installations by the end of May.
The county’s Building Back Better in Gloucestershire strategy is focused on investing in low-carbon technologies, such as solar panels, to achieve a carbon-neutral county by 2045.
The strategy also aims to reduce emissions by 80% by 2030.
The Recycling Fund has been instrumental in advancing these goals. It has been able to upskill its workforce, educate building occupiers on energy use, investigate other renewable technologies and explore avenues for suitable funding.
In our video, we hear about three key projects and achievements.
Coroner’s Court
The Gloucestershire Coroner’s Court is thought to be the first bespoke, purpose-built coroners building in England and Wales to have PV installed. With 220 solar panels on its roof, the system is expected to produce £21,000 worth of electricity annually and reduce carbon emissions equivalent to planting 919 trees.
This initiative at the Corinium Avenue site in Gloucester contributes significantly to the council's emission reduction targets and has attracted industry visits to learn about the service's operations.
Gloucestershire Heritage Hub
The Gloucestershire archives site in Alvin Street, Gloucester, which houses heritage and historic artefacts, has also benefited from solar installations.
The technologies will help reduce carbon emissions by 45,000 kg of CO2 per year, equivalent to planting over 2,000 trees, and generate an average of £50,000 in savings.
This installation has reduced the HVAC plant's energy consumption, which the council says will ensure the preservation of valuable artefacts.
Library estate
The library installations make up 20% of the council's library estate. These community hubs play a crucial role in delivering preventive outreach, such as Warm Spaces during winter months. The PV installations on these buildings have proven to be highly beneficial, supporting the council's sustainability goals.
The council has encountered structural issues during surveys, including loading and wind factors, and electrical supply mismatches. These challenges have led to adjustments in the proposed array sizes.
The council says it's a good idea for organisations to secure District Network Operator (DNO) acceptance upfront to help progress your project.
Equipped for the future
Rachael and the council team have praised the flexibility and support provided by our Salix colleagues throughout the funding process. They say, this experience has better equipped the council for future funding bids for energy efficient grants, including plans for air source heat pumps in the corporate estate.
Gloucestershire County Council believes the success of the Recycling Fund has enabled it to make significant strides towards its carbon-neutral goals.
The council's commitment to investing in renewable energy and reducing the county's carbon footprint is evident in the positive outcomes of these projects.
Our video is part of a series of testimonials videos marking the end of the Recycling Fund whilst celebrating its success and achievements. Thank you to Gloucestershire County Council for taking part in this work.
