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Energy saving measures employed in new school

24 July 2008

A school in Somerset is to benefit from low energy bills and a low carbon footprint thanks to environmentally-friendly refurbishment, it has been reported.

St Martin's Junior School in Worle, Weston-Super-Mare, has adopted a series of eco features as part of North Somerset council's Local Structure Plan.

Developed by Dalkia, the schools eco improvements include a replacement heating system, as well as an energy efficient boiler.

Steve Hodges, North Somerset council's energy, policy and project officer, commented that the planning had involved replacing the inefficient boiler in order for the school to be eco-friendly and cheaper to run.

"We settled on the gas boiler and solar hot water integrated system," he said.

"This has helped to save money, which is crucial given our environment and also helps to set a good example to the pupils, who are learning about climate change and energy efficiency."

In addition, the school has taken on a variety of microgeneration features, which will produce 15 per cent of the facility's electricity.

Elsewhere in the Somerset area, five eco homes are being constructed to meet the Code for Sustainable Housing's level five criteria.