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Heat Decarbonisation Plans and Salix funding support for Oxfordshire councils
Heat Decarbonisation Plans and Salix funding support for Oxfordshire councils
- Oxfordshire Councils
- Funding bid support, Heat decarbonisation plans, Heat decarbonisation studies
Overview
We helped two of our local councils map a clear pathway to decarbonising heat across major buildings and supported successful funding applications for the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.
Services provided:
- Heat decarbonisation studies
- Detailed modelling of heat decarbonisation options
- PSDS funding application support
South Oxfordshire District Council and Vale of White Horse District Council are both highly regarded for their proactive and ambitious approach to achieving net zero.
We were approached to deliver heat decarbonisation plans and funding bid preparation for almost all main sites – including leisure centres, pools and entertainment facilities. The project was a central component of the councils’ net zero delivery plans and included a range of heating systems and heat networks.
Key to the project was to deliver detailed condition and efficiency inspections on existing plant, to support Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme funding applications.
Objectives
The project aimed to:
- Provide the councils with a clear roadmap to decarbonise heating systems across high-demand sites.
- Identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency before implementing low-carbon heating solutions.
- Ensure all proposed interventions were technically feasible, particularly for swimming pools and other high-temperature facilities.
- Secure PSDS funding to accelerate project delivery.
Project scope
Our study involved detailed on-site assessment, with a review of installed plant and analysis. Many of the buildings were relatively old, with limited or no floor plans, so we conducted dimensioning surveys to ensure energy models were accurate. We evaluated distribution pipework, heat emitters, and plant conditions, providing guideline costs for any required replacements.
Swimming pools posed particular challenges, with high gas consumption and strict temperature requirements – making it crucial to optimise performance before considering low-carbon heating replacements. We proposed heat pumps in a cascade arrangement to increase flow temperature, and air to air heat pumps to serve the AHUs supplying air to pool halls.
Every recommendation was backed by detailed technical documentation to support PSDS funding eligibility. Post application, we also helped the council answer any technical queries from Salix (the funding administrator).
Outcomes & deliverables
We produced high-quality reports and outline concept designs (RIBA 2 level) – with clear heat decarbonisation recommendations for each site, including projected energy savings and implementation costs.
- This delivered measurable benefits to the councils:
- A clear, costed, practical strategy to decarbonise high-demand facilities which will reduce energy costs, and cut carbon emissions
- All PSDS funding applications were successful – securing significant funding for capital upgrades.
Ready to Decarbonise your buildings?
Concept can help you develop practical heat decarbonisation plans, with detailed cost breakdowns and savings calculations to support your business case.
We stay up to date with the latest funding opportunities, including Salix, devolved funding and the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme – and identify the right routes for your project. Get in touch for advice.