Ameresco, a cleantech integrator for energy efficiency and renewable energy, and Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council have completed a $4.93 million infrastructure redevelopment project in two phases.
The infrastructure upgrades will enable Barnsley Council to achieve annual energy savings of around 2,085,537 kWh and reduce carbon emissions by 529 tons annually.
“To truly enhance energy resiliency and combat the climate crisis, it is crucial that we prioritize the implementation of diverse, comprehensive solution sets that combine renewable energy and energy efficiency updates,” said Britta MacIntosh, Executive Vice President, General Manager, West/UK Regions. “The completion of this project will benefit the Council with energy and cost savings for years to come, making a lasting impact on the local community.”
The first phase included replacing existing coal-fired boilers with a new combined heat and power and gas-fired system. Ameresco added a new gas main to the site and refurbished the existing air handling unit.
The second phase delivered air source heat pumps across six Barnsley Council sites with solar photovoltaic systems and various other energy conservation measures.
While Phase 1 construction started in 2020, Phase 2 initiated in 2021, with both Phases completed in 2022.
“In 2019, Barnsley Council called a climate emergency in response to the government’s wish to reach carbon neutrality by 2050,” Councilor Robert Frost said. “We’re hoping the Council to be carbon neutral by 2040.”
