Renewable energy in our buildings

We completed a pilot scheme to assess the viability of renewable and sustainable heating and electricity supplies.

The objective of the scheme is to install a range of systems using renewable fuel sources including solar water heating, heat pumps, wind turbines and solar electricity panels or photovoltaic cells. We will be installing these systems in some of our houses so that they can be monitored and information obtained on their efficiency and running costs.

It will also be necessary to monitor housing with traditional heating systems so that comparisons can be made. Tenants have been kept informed on the scheme from the outset and have been asked for their views on the proposals and support by being included in the project.

Air source heat pumps have been installed in properties in Fort Augustus, Lochend and Balintore. They are currently being monitored using sensors placed around the property which have a reader unit located on the outside of the property. Heat pumps work by using the evaporation and condensing of a refrigerant to move heat from one place to another. Air source heat pumps take heat from the outside air and give up the heat to the radiator system inside the property. The next phase involves installing solar water heating panels in properties in Fort Augustus and Aviemore.

Should this pilot study identify successful systems then these are likely to become a choice of heating available to tenants in future upgrades. The scheme has additional benefits in raising awareness of renewable technologies not only for our tenants but also the private sector.