Issue - meetings

The report provided details in respect of a potential photovoltaic/solar panel installation.

Annex 1 is restricted on the grounds of commercially sensitive information

The joint report of the Director of Central Services and Deputy Chief Executive and the Director of Street Scene, Leisure and Technical Services set out proposals for the installation of photovoltaic/solar  (PV) panels at Larkfield Leisure Centre.  It was felt that this represented the quickest and simplest way of reducing utility usage, which was a significant overhead for the Leisure Trust due to the current global economic situation.

Due to it being the largest utility user of all the leisure centres, coupled with the fact that it had large flat roofs on which to mount a PV system, it was felt that Larkfield Leisure Centre was an appropriate facility for this type of installation.

A proposal had been received from a framework contractor (SAS Energy) and this was summarised in 1.3.4 of the report.   As a result of the current volatility in the market, SAS energy would be asked to re-price for the installation if Members agreed that this was the best approach.

In addition, it was proposed that the sports hall flat roof be replaced prior to the installation of the PV system.

A Capital Plan evaluation setting out financial details of the proposals was attached at Annex 2.

Members welcomed the installation of PV/solar panels on the grounds of supporting the Climate Change Strategy, and the aspiration to become carbon neutral by 2030, and potentially producing savings to support the Savings and Transformation Strategy.  However, concern was expressed in respect of the sports hall flat roof and it was requested that a certified structural report be provided confirming that the roof could support the weight of PV/solar panels.  This was proposed by Councillor Rhodes, seconded by Councillor Taylor and supported unanimously.

RESOLVED:   That

(1)             subject to a certified structural assessment report confirming that the sports hall roof would support the weight of PV/solar panels, SAS energy be asked to re-price for the PV proposal;

(2)             if the revised price was within 15% of the original quote, SAS energy be appointed under the Laser procurement framework Y18003 to supply and install the system;

(3)             the Scheme be added to the Capital Plan in 2022/23 with funding being provided from the Climate Change Reserve; and

(4)             the re-felting of the sports hall roof be met from the BRREP reserve with funding of this Plan to be reviewed as part of the forthcoming budget setting process.