Using the Re:fit framework to drive towards net zero

The Re:fit framework supports the delivery of public sector net-zero ambitions, writes Tony Lawson, project director at Local Partnerships.

The government’s net zero strategy and heat and buildings strategy allocated £1.4bn grant funding across three years. Phase 3b has been announced and will allocate up to £635m of funding to public sector organisations, to be spent in financial years 2023-24 and 2024-25.

The framework supports the delivery of public sector net-zero ambitions by engaging a prequalified contractor through the framework and working with the contractors to develop business cases to support grant funding applications and deliver the necessary works.

Available exclusively to public sector organisations, the framework helps develop a strong grant funding application in partnership with the contractor, supported by a framework trusted by the providers of funding.

Re:fit has supported more than 250 public sector organisations deliver infrastructure across more than 1,000 buildings to achieve a total CO2 emission reduction of more than 52,000 tonnes annually and annual cost savings.

The framework has supported a diverse range of organisations across the public sector including councils, central government departments, universities and NHS trusts to deliver a diverse range of solutions across their estates.

Case studies in success

Carmarthenshire CC and Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) are typical examples of organisations benefitting from using the framework.

Carmarthenshire has procured works to deliver its leisure aspirations and drive down the energy consumption as part of its wider effort to reduce its carbon footprint, achieving energy savings in excess of 2,000,000kWh. Phase one of the works is estimated to deliver £315,000 of savings, reducing carbon emissions by 675 tonnes. Further phases of work will be developed to support the council achieve its net zero objectives by 2030.

ARU aims to be zero carbon by 2045, requiring a step change in performance in reducing carbon emissions. It was particularly attracted to the framework because it provides additional expertise through the advice available from Local Partnerships and also the delivery expertise of suppliers to the framework. The performance guarantee provides assurance that investments will provide a payback. ARU is delivering three phases of work, each approximately £1m up to 2024.

To increase the pace, scale and delivery of net zero ambitions, or position your authority effectively for future funding rounds, please contact Tony Lawson at refit@localpartnerships.gov.uk