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Apply now for your slice of clean, green Scotland!
21st December 2004
EST’s Innovation programme provides funding and support for community groups such as local authorities, housing associations and their partners, to promote and implement innovative approaches to reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Since 2001 EST’s Innovation Programme has approved grants for almost 200 schemes throughout the UK.
Philip Sellwood, Chief Executive of EST urged prospective grant recipients to take the opportunity to apply for funding, and ensure Scotland doesn’t miss out on its slice of this year’s fund: “Innovation programme grants will assist Scotland in its drive to lead the UK in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and to ensure aspirations of a clean, green Scotland remain a reality for future generations.”
EST’s Innovation programme supports projects that target energy efficiency in housing with some projects achieving as much as 70 per cent carbon dioxide reductions. Funding and technical support for environmental projects and renewable technology is available with up to £10,000 is available for a feasibility study, while implementation funding is available for up to £90,000.
Recently the Island of Gigha in the Hebrides benefitted from EST support, with the refurbishment of six affordable homes to let on the island. The Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust’s application to carry out the work directly addressed issues of local economic regeneration, fuel poverty and affordable warmth. Use of ‘super insulation’ and the application of appropriate renewables technology has resulted in energy savings averaging 75 per cent. The approach is to be applied to 18 new affordable homes to let and the refurbishment of the Heritage Trust’s 36 remaining homes.
Back on the Mainland, South Ayrshire Council is overseeing a project which aims to investigate the viability of Earthships as a sustainable option for social housing and community buildings in the UK. Made from natural and recycled materials and powered by renewable energy, such as wind, water and solar power, the project hopes to find that the low-carbon, low-impact Earthship concept is a viable social housing model. Practical issues such as costs, planning issues and building methods will be explored alongside the potential for Earthship communities to have development partners such as housing associations and local authorities.
For further information about EST’s Innovation programme, please click the link below or call 0870 241 2089.
