Local authority involvement with energy conservation

This paper arises from a research program examining local authority involvement with energy conservation in the UK. As the result of a questionnaire survey mailed to all local authorities in England, Scotland and Wales, data have been compiled on their activities, arrangements and perceptions with regard to energy conservation. This information encompasses the pursuit of energy conservation objectives, both in their own premises and in the local community, through their multitude of services and responsibilities. Differences in the approach to energy conservation, the manner in which it has been internalised and the degree of involvement of members and officers are to be found in the various local government tiers, with specific tiers displaying a stronger commitment to energy conservation across most of the variables examined. Overall, the survey illustrates that local authority involvement is focused strongly on the fuel consumption in their own buildings, except where central government funding has been available. Even with regard to their own premises, their involvement remains less than comprehensive in nature.