Energy
Decarbonising our public buildings
The Council has deployed around £27m through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS). This includes installing solar panels, air source heat pumps and energy efficiency improvements. The scheme includes schools, libraries, leisure centres, offices and theatres. The works carried out will save an estimated 2,700 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
Warm Homes: Local Grant
The Warm Homes: Local Grant scheme in Newcastle is being delivered by Warmworks. Residents living in the private sector can increase the comfort and warmth of their homes. The scheme offers insulation improvements, renewable technologies and other energy efficient measures. WH:LG replaces the Sustainable Warmth Scheme and is available to properties with all heating types.
Low Carbon Neighbourhood
The Low Carbon Neighbourhood is a pilot scheme based in the West End of Newcastle. The project is a residential neighbourhood of 228 homes with low rise mixed tenure. It aims to develop full Net Zero domestic retrofit plans based on the area's energy network. A pilot property is nearing completion with an air source heat pump and solar pv installed.
Improving energy efficiency in homes
The Council has received over £10 million to retrofit multiple tower blocks in the city. This includes installing heat pumps, new thermostats, external wall insulation and new windows. Works have completed on:
- Denton Park House
- Hilltop House
- Heaton Park Court
- Shieldfield tower blocks
Street lighting LED programme
The scheme saw the replacement of 34,000 street lights across the city.
This will result in £1.4m saved every year from using more energy-efficient technology. 6000 tonnes of carbon will also be saved each year from this replacement.
Helix District Energy Network
Newcastle City Council is part of the Regenerate Partnership. They have developed a district energy centre to deliver heating to the Helix site. This heat network has expanded beyond the Helix site to the Discovery Museum.
Planning is also progressing to connect Newcastle College to the heat network. You can find out more about the project expansion here.
North East Warm Homes
North East Warm Homes is delivered by NECA and Energy Saving Trust, and offers free, impartial advice to residents about how they can improve their homes’ energy efficiency. Visit North East Warm Homes for more information.