Innovative Energy Network Launched in Birmingham (Birmingham Liberal Democrats)

Birmingham Liberal Democrats <info@birminghamlibdems.org.uk>

Innovative Energy Network Launched in Birmingham

February 17, 2009 10:08 PM

"Birmingham has long been determined to lead the way in terms of tackling climate change," says Lib Dem Councillor Paul Tilsley.

News that Birmingham City Council has formally signed an agreement with Birmingham Children's Hospital to create the city's third large-scale low emission energy scheme, potentially saving more than 20,000 tonnes of carbon emissions across the network per year, has been welcomed.

Operating from a special generator and plant in the hospital grounds the Combined Heat and Power (CHP) scheme will provide hot water for heating, electricity and cold water for air conditioning to the hospital and a string of nearby buildings including the Council's Lancaster Circus offices.

Cllr Paul Tilsley (Lib Dem, Sheldom Ward), Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "Birmingham has long been determined to lead the way in terms of tackling climate change and set ambitious targets for doing so which far exceed those being pursued elsewhere in the country."

"Between them, Birmingham's three CHP schemes will reduce the city's carbon emissions by more than 10,000 tonnes per year, forming a key part of our plan for an overall reduction of 60% by 2026- well ahead of the Government's 2050 deadline."

Unlike traditional forms of energy production which are typically only 30% efficient, meaning they release more energy into the environment than they actually produce, the Children's Hospital CHP scheme will achieve an efficiency rating closer to 80%.

Under a 25 year 'Energy Supply Agreement' Birmingham District Energy Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Utilicom Group), will now construct and deliver the scheme, adding to existing schemes in Broad Street and Aston University areas.

It is estimated that the Children's Hospital scheme will, together with the existing District Energy Scheme's in Birmingham, deliver over 12,800 tonnes of CO2 emission reductions each year rising to an estimate of over 20,000 tonnes each year within the city centre. This unified approach will save the City the equivalent weight of 110 un-laden Jumbo Jets in carbon emissions.

In its first year of operation the Broad Street CHP network saved 2,800 tonnes of carbon compared to traditional forms of energy creation. This is enough energy to produce 600 cups of tea and 700 slices of toast each year for every resident in Birmingham. Buildings connected to the Broad Street Network include the ICC, NIA, Council House, Town Hall, Rep Theatre, Paradise Circus and Hyatt Regency Hotel.