The Highland Council's Climate Change & Energy Team has won the Best Large Project 2024 award at the Scottish Energy Efficiency Awards.

The team's work in providing warmer, energy-efficient homes for residents across the Highland region has garnered recognition both locally and nationally.

At the Highland Council Staff Recognition Awards in June, the Council's Energy Efficiency Scotland: Area Based Scheme team received the top honour in the 'Just Transition to a Net Zero Economy' category.

The accolades didn't stop there; within hours, the team's efforts were celebrated outside the local authority at the esteemed Scottish Energy Efficiency Awards.

The team won the Best Large Project 2024 award, received a nomination for Best Council or Local Authority Team, and earned a Highly Commended honour for their innovative approach to energy efficiency.

The team's prestigious Best Large Project award highlights their success in building multi-funded projects, managing the supply chain proactively, and delivering whole house retrofits.

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The efforts are crucial in tackling fuel poverty and supporting vulnerable households across Highland. Their commitment to delivering warmer, more energy-efficient homes is making a significant difference in the lives of many residents.

Malcolm MacLeod, Assistant Chief Executive at Highland Council, said: "I am delighted to see the team’s hard work and dedication being recognised, not only within the Council but by an external organization.

"Our mission is to secure substantial external funding and align with the Council’s mandate to alleviate fuel poverty. Our initiatives target the most energy-inefficient properties, achieving substantial reductions in energy bills, mitigating carbon emissions, and enhancing living conditions."

The Council's focus on place-based projects leverages economies of scale and drives regeneration, fostering self-sufficiency within communities through training initiatives. This community-centric approach reflects the Council’s strategic shift towards maximising benefits for households in need.

With a track record spanning 11 years, the CCET team has consistently delivered energy efficiency projects, underscoring their commitment to addressing fuel poverty and reducing carbon emissions. Their success is exemplified by their participation in initiatives like the Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme (EES:ABS).

The team has secured £2,916,913 in Scottish Government grant funding for the 2023/24 project, poised to deliver over 400 energy efficiency measures to 135 properties, with 83% of households classified as extreme fuel poor.