Whats New for Local Authorities

Welcome to the What's New page where you will find key updates and new additions to the Energy Saving Trust website. This page is updated every month and provides information on new and updated publications, new funding streams and updates on current funds, new non-EST resources, new bills and consultations and key forthcoming events.

Smarter driving training
The Energy Saving Trust has recently launched a Smarter driver training programme for employees, which it is confident will see an average 15 per cent reduction in drivers' fuel consumption.. This means not only a 15 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, but also savings of around £200-250 a year for the typical motorist.

The training starts and finishes from the company car park, so employees can be back at their desks within an hour of leaving. It costs just £15 per person - giving average pay-back times of less than a month!

Smarter driving training provides an excellent opportunity for employers to demonstrate their commitment to staff and to the environment. It is open to all employees with full driving licences whether or not they drive on company business. There is a minimum 24 trainees per organisation. For more information contact Miles Hart on miles.hart@est.org.uk or 07534 245234

New publications

Hard to treat homes - Servite housing association
This new case study details a scheme in Scotland to install air source heat pumps in 53 properties which are off the main gas network.

New funding

Greener living fund.
Following the launch of the Third Sector Strategy, Defra has announced a two-year £6million pound Greener living fund to help individuals and communities in England reduce their carbon footprint. The Energy Saving Trust will provide support to the winning schemes through their regional and community activities.

Events

LGA/EST conference and exhibition 2009

The Local Government Association/Energy Saving Trust conference takes place between 21st - 22nd January. In the eye of the storm: councils at the heart of tackling climate change will focus on the opportunities and challenges in meeting targets set through the new performance framework.
Councils are uniquely placed to deliver change but cannot do it alone, so the conference will also look at mobilising communities and businesses to take action.
For more information and to book your place click here.

Bills and Consultations

• Delivering a sustainable transport system - consultation on planning for 2014 and beyond
• One Wales: One Planet: Consultation on a new sustainable development scheme for Wales
• Sustainability Committee Inquiry Carbon Reduction in Wales: The role of the planning system