Bristol’s green credentials have received a major boost with a move that could slash residents’ energy bills by £3.5m a year, save 17,900 tonnes of CO2 and cut the city’s domestic gas use by 5%.
The ambitious plans, approved by the city council Cabinet today, come as preparations are being drawn up for next year when Bristol will take on the mantle of European Green Capital.
At the heart of the plans is a programme of energy-efficiency measures for the council’s social housing stock as well as private housing across the city. 
This will come from a Green Deal Provider partner, or partners, who will be appointed for four years and a similar agreement with an Energy Company Obligation funding partner or partners also for up to four years.
Once the necessary procurement exercises have been completed, the council will launch a city-wide Green Deal offer later this summer.
Mayor of Bristol George Ferguson, pictured, said: “These steps represent a massive investment in the city’s homes that will lengthen their life, cut residents’ fuel bills and significantly reduce Bristol's carbon dioxide emissions.
“It is a major reinforcement of the city’s green credentials as we move towards Green Capital status next year, and is in line with my ambition to invest and grow despite the economic challenges, and to re-structure the way we provide services to give us a more sustainable future.”
Assistant mayor with responsibility for the environment, Councillor Gus Hoyt added: “A third of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions caused by the heating and lighting of homes. Making Bristol’s homes more energy-efficient is absolutely central to cutting Bristol’s carbon footprint, fuel bills and waste.
“We are committed to reducing the city’s CO2 emissions by 40% and energy use by 30% by 2020 – ambitiously compared with 2005 levels – and this programme of investment represents a major milestone on the road to achieving this goal.”
Bristol residents who would like to register their interest in advance can do so by emailing elena@bristol.gov.uk
Anyone who registers will be contacted following the appointment of the council’s Green Deal Provider partner this summer.
