funding news
14/05/2009 - Big Money Prize For Improving Energy Efficiency
A £1 million prize fund to reward innovative Scottish ideas that can cut carbon emissions from houses has opened to entries.
Run by the Energy Saving Trust, the Energy Efficiency Design Awards are offering cash injections worth a maximum of £250,000 for projects that aim to improve the efficiency of Scotland’s housing stock.
A large proportion of properties in Scotland, such as Victorian tenements, historic buildings and buildings with flat roofs, are not suitable for basic energy efficiency measures like cavity wall and loft insulation.
The fund aims to solve problems such as these by providing support for housing associations, the construction industry, designers, local authorities and community groups to come up with ideas that improve efficiency through the innovative use of design, materials, and technologies.
Projects must focus on residential properties in Scotland and lead to at least a 40% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, whilst applications must be made by 26 June.
The competition was first trailed back in February by Environment Minister Michael Russell, who hopes it will find “pioneering and affordable solutions that can inspire others”.
Maf Smith, director of the Sustainable Development Commission in Scotland, has backed the awards, saying:
“Tackling energy efficiency in our existing homes will be critical if we are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help reduce the size of people's energy bills.
“Action by the Scottish Government to look at this problem and encourage better solutions is therefore very welcome.”
For further information about the Energy Efficiency Design Awards and to download an application pack, visit the Energy Saving Trust Scotland website (opens a new window)
Source: Energy Saving Trust Scotland, 11/05/2009
