The Isle of Wight Council is working in partnership with Isle of Wight Schools’ Forum to help reduce the amount of energy used in schools.
Currently schools account for 43 per cent of the council’s total carbon footprint, which costs the council around £100,000 per year in carbon taxes, which were introduced by the Government as part of its Carbon Reduction Commitment scheme. As part of the work to make schools more energy efficient, the council has recruited an energy and carbon management officer on a two-year fixed term post funded by the Isle of Wight Schools’ Forum. Mason Murray, who has a background in facilities management, will work with schools to help them identify ways of saving energy – which will both save money and help contribute towards the council’s target of reducing its carbon footprint by six per cent each year. Part of Mason’s work will be to monitor data from smart meters that the council has installed at every Island school. These provide detailed information about gas and electricity usage, making it easier to identify potential savings. Mason Murray, said: “I am really looking forward to taking on this new role which will enable me to make a real difference to the Island’s carbon footprint. I have a keen interest in energy efficiency and am looking forward to working with the Island’s schools to help them reduce their energy usage.” Councillor George Brown, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member for the economy and the environment, said: “The council has set tough targets to reduce its carbon footprint. This appointment shows our commitment to achieving these reductions which will not only be better for the environment but will save the schools and council money.”
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