25 June 2014
Residents of sheltered accommodation in St Ouen have felt the benefit of measures to make their homes more energy efficient, and the parish authorities have saved money.
The Parish of St Ouen has received help from the Department of the Environment's Energy Efficiency Service. Its Community Buildings Programme helps charities and not-for-profit organisations that provide services to vulnerable members of the local community. The aim is to improve the energy efficiency of community properties, reduce overheads and create a more comfortable environment for people.
Simple energy efficency measures
The improvements to St Ouen parish accommodation included loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, the introduction of heating controls as well as highly efficient boiler replacements.
The Minister for Planning and Environment, Deputy Rob Duhamel said "This is another brilliant example of how relatively simple energy efficiency measures can make an enormous difference to both your comfort and finances. We're really pleased that the parish has seen such significant savings already, which I've no doubt are set to continue."
Real benefit
The Chairman of the Jersey Energy Trust, Sir Nigel Broomfield, said "The work that's been done through the Community Buildings Programme has been of real benefit to the recipients. We are delighted our partnership with the Parish of St Ouen is another great success."
The Parish of St Ouen allocates sheltered accommodation to older residents who need easy access to local amenities. The parish houses approximately 49 people over the age of 60 - most are over the age of 75.
The Community Buildings Programme has benefited a further 20 local organisations. Another five have been accepted onto the programme, and are currently waiting for work to start.
The Energy Efficiency Service invites any charity or not-for-profit organisation that provides a service to vulnerable Islanders to apply for assistance. Organisations are urged to contact energyefficiencyservice@gov.je for more information and an application form.
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