Coventry’s Central Library has been recognised in a national awards scheme for the way it is cutting its use of fossil fuels and preparing to go Net Zero.
The Library has received an Energy Management Award following a two-year project to cut carbon use.
Work has included draught-proofing the windows, upgrading to LED and Solar PV lighting, upgrading the mains supply, replacing gas boilers with a dual ASHP (air source heat pump) system, and installing a new battery storage system.
Even the library’s vehicles are going greener, with a switch from diesel to electric vans and EV charging points being installed.
The heritage restrictions on the Grade II listed building meant the team had to find innovative ways it could remove reliance on fossil fuel use while preserving the building’s features.
The changes are set to create an annual saving of £60,000 for the first year alone.
Councillor Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change at Coventry City Council, said: “It’s great to get recognition for the innovative ways we are driving towards Net Zero goals.
“The Central Library is the main library hub for Coventry, and offers a key, free service to people in Coventry. Adapting it with modern, green technology lets us preserve our history while bringing it up to modern energy specifications.
“The savings created from ditching fossil fuels set a tone for finding ways to renovate our cities, so that they can be cost-effective and better for the environment.”
Funding for the work was secured through a Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme grant administered by Salix Finance and funded via the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
The Award in the EMA Energy Efficient Project of 2023 category was made by the Energy Managers Association, a leading professional membership association.
The awards celebrate significant efforts, dedication and expertise of outstanding individuals, teams and organisations in the energy management and sustainability industry.