An energy efficiency drive in government buildings is creating ’significant savings’.

Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer has outlined the measures his department is taking to make government-owned properties more energy efficient.

Mr Harmer said: ’We take our responsibilities towards energy efficiency very seriously and are continually exploring ways to improve the performance of our buildings.

’Energy efficiency is an important part of the department’s overall contribution to a financially responsible government.’

Mr Harmer added: ’Significant savings are being achieved each year at sites such as Noble’s Hospital, the National Sports Centre, schools and offices as a result of more energy efficient approaches to lighting.’

The department tries to incorporate new technology when refurbishing buildings, to see what savings can be made on lighting.

He was responding to House of Keys questions from David Ashford (Douglas North) about lighting and the airtightness of schools.

The Department of Infrastructure has an energy management team in the public estates and housing division, he revealed.

’When considering the funding of energy savings schemes, the team assesses a range of factors including the payback period,’ he said.

’The installation of modern lighting control systems continues to be carried out in conjunction with other energy saving initiatives, such as replacement boilers, new pumping systems, heat recovery units, new windows and better insulation.’

Testing takes place in schools to see how airtight they are, the minister said.

’This has identified areas where cost-effective improvements can be carried out to enhance energy efficiency.’

Efficiency drive brings savings