Council bosses could clamp down on use of kettles and toasters to tackle soaring energy bills
dailyrecord.co.ukKettle and microwave use in council buildings could be monitored as part of a drive to slash soaring energy bills.Tighter controls around energy waste have been agreed by West Lothian Council as it faces an £2.644 million increase to its bills this year - and up to almost £13m by the end of the current administration.Some energy measures are already in place but more will be agreed and it could mean fewer kettles and microwaves in use in council premises and strict control of heaters.It will also see the use of public swimming pools looked at, while other proposals include a fee for using electric vehicle charging points.Donald Forrest, council’s Head of Finance and Property Services warned that surging costs will result in more of the council’s budget being diverted to pay for rising energy bills.He told a meeting of the Council’s Executive that officers have already implemented a number of measures to reduce energy consumption but a range of further measures will be considered that would reduce energy use and costs including; introducing tariffs for public EV charging, enhanced LED lighting, increasing the use of solar PV panels on buildings and reviewing the provision of local swimming pools.A report to the Executive said: “There are a number of measures which require specific and detailed consideration including the rationalisation of the council’s estate and a review of swimming pool provision.“Swimming pools have a particularly high level of energy usage due to the water and air temperatures required in their operation.
Council Executive is asked to note that a number of other authorities and leisure trusts have already announced changes or reviews of existing provision and officers will investigate these and the
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