South Ayrshire Council's Asset Management team have won a top honour at The Public Finance Awards 2024! The team picked up the coveted 'Excellence in Strategic Investment or Asset Management' award.
The award recognises the Council's proactive work on energy management which began in 2018. The first step was the installation of automatic meter readers at Council buildings. This then paved the way for the introduction of centrally controlled building management systems.
These systems not only allow remote access to heating controls, but they can also be used to detect any faults. The resulting heating systems are more robust and have saved a staggering 36% in gas consumption since the programme began. This translates to a saving of £476,000 over approximately five years.
Councillor Martin Kilbride, Buildings, Housing and Environment Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said:
"This is a fantastic achievement! Congratulations to our Asset Management team, not only have they made massive savings, but they have reduced over 2,500 tonnes of carbon at the same time!
"This award highlights our innovative and leading approach to energy management and is a significant step towards our net zero ambitions."
Judges from the awards panel said:
"South Ayrshire has pioneered savings through better management of energy in the Council's buildings, with distinctive and tangible benefits for both the financial and environmental bottom lines."
The Council's successful energy management initiative has also been recognised by other local authorities. The Asset Management team and delivery partners Trend are now supporting other Councils to introduce their own systems.
