Energy Audits

The Diocese is working with sustainability consultant Matt Fulford of Inspired Efficiency to offer energy audits to all our churches.

Matt is a sustainable buildings expert who specialises in developing practical solutions to deliver low carbon, energy and cost-efficient church buildings. Matt runs the Energy Audit Programme for the Church of England nationally, as well as for the Diocese of Oxford, and is Sustainability Advisor for the Diocese of Gloucester.

In his spare time he has worked to create the first zero-carbon grade I listed church building in the UK at St Michael’s, Withington.

We will arrange a date for Matt to visit and survey your church. Matt then reviews his survey results and will send you a report which:

• Reviews your energy suppliers and whether you are getting best value
• Looks at how you use energy and in what proportions, eg lighting, heating, other power
• Suggests options for an efficient/low carbon heating strategy
• Makes energy saving recommendations
• Looks at any options for renewable energy generation on site, eg solar pv, heat pump
• Provides costed options and links to suggested suppliers

All churches could benefit from an audit. It will be particularly useful for any church considering renewing its heating or lighting system, particularly where there are plans to replace a boiler or to make any other major outlay.

The DAC will now require an audit to have been carried out before considering a faculty application for a new heating system.

The cost is calculated on the basis that Matt can visit three churches in one area in one day. The Diocese is keen to support these audits and has agreed to subsidise the cost by 50% - so you only pay £225.

Get in touch with Sarah Perons, Churches Development Officer.