Choice Energy Innovation
Choice have a long history of demonstrating innovation in relation to energy and environmental management. We have developed numerous ground breaking new housing developments in recent years and are the only housing association to have an energy team.
Each year we invest significantly in energy saving measures across our housing stock, which may include improving insulation, replacing windows and doors, installing LED lighting and upgrading heating systems. In 2015/16 we invested around £2m in energy related measures.
In recent years we have also examined more innovative approaches to deliver energy savings for our customers. We currently have around 360 Solar PV systems throughout Northern Ireland, generating around 550MWh of renewable electricity and saving over 250,000 tonnes of CO2. This is estimated to save our customers over £40,000 each year on electricity charges. We are also currently discussing opportunities around battery storage to make use of more electricity generated by our Solar PV systems and also to take advantage of different electricity tariffs.
We are also looking at ways to improve heating controls at communal heating systems and to reduce costs, with trials of new heating controls and heating additives underway.
We recognise the importance of making sure the energy we purchase is at the most competitive rates and so have contracts in place to ensure savings are delivered. These contracts have saved our customers hundreds of thousands of pounds in recent years, with more information on our website tomorrow!
