Energy generation and storage

Solar panel installation 

Where possible Runnymede Borough Council have installed photovoltaic panels to the roofs of buildings we own to produce electricity. So far, this has been done at The Hythe Centre, The Woodham and New Haw Day Centre, Egham Orbit Leisure Centre, and Unit 1 Chertsey Business Park. 
Electricity produced is used at the building, and the energy supplier pay the Council for the unused electricity to be fed back to the National Grid. We are reviewing further sites that may be suitable for similar projects. 

Egham Orbit energy generation

Egham Orbit has a combined heat and power unit which is effectively a mini power station. It takes gas input to generate electricity as well the heat, which is an ideal combination for a leisure centre because there is great demand for both electricity and heat throughout the entire day. This therefore produces efficiencies in operation. 

Runnymede Local Plan 2030 

Our most significant policy document in relation to the environment and climate is the adopted Runnymede 2030 Local Plan. The Local Plan has a number of policies which contribute to the mitigation of, and adaptation to, climate change. These include policy SD7 on ‘Sustainable Design’, SD8 on ‘Renewable and Low Carbon Energy’, and EE13 on ‘Managing Flood Risk’. Read more about the Runnymede Local Plan 2030. 

• Runnymede Local Plan 2030

Net Zero Carbon Toolkit

At Corporate Management Committee on 21 March 2024, the Council adopted the Runnymede Net Zero Carbon Toolkit. This is adapted to reflect the Councils own policy framework and local circumstances from the original toolkit commissioned by The Forest of Dean, Cotswold and West Oxfordshire District Councils, and has been designed to assist building professionals and homeowners in the planning, design and construction of both new build and retrofit housing projects.

• Corporate Management Committee on 21 March 2024

Pulling together the latest guidance and best practice, the Toolkit provides a useful technical, go-to guide on what to consider in the very early stages of design; how to achieve fabric efficiency; what systems to include; where to go for expert advice; and what to consider once you’ve finished your housing project. Find out more about the toolkit on our website.

• Net Zero Carbon Toolkit