Agenda item

Councillor B Deering, the Chairman of the Climate Change Task and Finish group submitted an update on the work undertaken so far and proposed potential key strategy areas.  Councillor B Deering commented that it had been an interesting exercise, covering a wide range of themes and which had had excellent input from both Members and Officers.  He referred to a number of outstanding issues and further discussions which the Group wished to undertake particularly in relation to renewable energy investment opportunities including battery storage.  Councillor B Deering also referred to the need for the Council to be seen to be leading the climate change agenda locally and to get the message out to the business community and residents, aided by some form of hosted gathering.

The Environmental Sustainability Co-ordinator referred to Government imposed targets to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency.  It was noted that in 2009, the Council’s established target was a 25% reduction in carbon emissions by 2020 and this currently stood at 17%.  Councillor N Symonds raised the issue of trying to get Housing Associations to install solar panels.  It was noted that solar panel installations had been funded in the past through national schemes and that now such funding was less readily available. The current priorities for energy efficient development relate to a hierarchy of energy reduction, building  fabric improvements and use of alternative energy.

The Committee Chairman sought and was provided with clarification on energy reduction targets and whether this was an issue across the EU platform or globally.  The Environmental Sustainability Co-ordinator referred to the number of private rented properties which had an energy efficiency rating  of “F” or below and the targets to bring as many homes to the level of code “C”.  It was noted that a significant minority of homes in East Hertfordshire required significant energy efficiency improvements.  The Environmental Sustainability Co-ordinator explained why.   He also explained how CO2 emissions at a District level were calculated. 

Councillor G Cutting sought and was provided with clarification in relation to an application by Wickham Hall to house a battery bank and questioned why insulating (thermal) glass rather than solar panels, was not being promoted on new homes.   This was explained by Officers.

It was moved by Councillor M Deering and seconded by Councillor Mrs D Hollebon, that the recommendations, as detailed, be supported.  After being put to the meeting, and a vote taken, the recommendations were CARRIED.

RESOLVED – that (A) further meetings of the Task and Finish Group continue in order to complete its review of climate change activity within the District;

(B)   the Group prepare a draft strategy for discussion at Overview and Scrutiny Committee in September 2018;

(C)   Officers facilitate the establishment of a forum that meets periodically to enable local environmental groups and other interested organisations to co-ordinate climate change activities and undertake joint working with the Council;

(D)   Officers ensure opportunities continue to be explored for carbon reduction and energy efficiency measures to be reflected within relevant policy areas such as planning policy; and

(E)   Officers develop a draft communication strategy to effectively promote climate change resilience activities, energy efficiency and carbon reduction, demonstrating the community leadership role of the authority.