Project to cut energy consumption

In a bid to reduce energy consumption at leisure sites in Pembrokeshire, the local authority has taken some expert advice from Carbon Trust Wales.

The council has elected energy champions at each of the county's 11 leisure centres to establish energy saving goals and ensure employee commitment.

Pembrokeshire County Council also conducted energy efficiency workshops for leisure centre staff, after receiving suggestions from Carbon Trust Wales.

Energy manager, Steve Keating, said: "The energy audit conducted by Carbon Trust Wales early this year identified leisure centres as the highest energy users in our public building stock. So this was a logical starting point for change."

Experts will monitor the progress and achievements of the project throughout the year. Tenby Leisure Centre hopes to cut its total energy consumption by 10%.

Energy champion Daniel Mumford, who organised the workers into energy-saving teams, said: "Our receptionists monitor lighting, our lifeguards ensure the pool is covered to minimise heat loss and water evaporation and duty officers turn the heating off in rooms not used for long periods of the day.

"Our general support staff are doing their bit by ensuring that all computers and lighting are switched off each night."

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