OUSEBURN TRUST FEASIBILITY STUDY

COMMUNITY ENERGY FUND

BACKGROUND

The Ouseburn Trust is a place-based membership organisation open to all who share a passion and a commitment to preserving and enhancing the built and natural environment. It is an independent Charity serving not just those who live in the Valley, but also those who work and visit.

While the Trust own and rent property to other charities and small businesses, they serve the needs of the wider community in terms of shaping the future regeneration of the place, and its natural environment. Tenants, in essence partners/beneficiaries of the Trust include Stepney Bank Stables, Home Group, Tyne Housing (supporting vulnerable adults) are supportive of this scheme.

The Trust are focused on reducing their carbon footprint and so, with assistance from D3A, made a successful Community Energy Fund Stage 1 grant application in order to fund an initial Feasibility Study.

The study considered options for reducing energy demand, principally heat loss through the building fabric, alternative low carbon heating systems and the potential for roof mounted large solar PV arrays along with battery storage. In addition, the provision for EV charging and e-bike charging in a bespoke shelter.

Our economic analysis demonstrated that a full project is viable, following stakeholder consultation, our final report was presented to the Trust for approval. Subsequently, an application was submitted to the Community Fund Stage 2 for grant funding to complete the detailed design, submit a full planning application and undertake a tender process.

OUTCOME

Following detailed site surveys, d3associates completed the architectural, mechanical and electrical design for:

• Replacement windows and doors to the retail units, Stepney Bank Stables and the rear elevation of the residential properties.

• Replacement of the existing heating systems with air source heat pumps.

• A 300kWp rooftop solar PV installation supported by a 170kWh battery energy storage system.

• A new private low-voltage electrical distribution network.

• EV charging infrastructure together with a purpose-built e-bike shelter incorporating charging facilities.

A full planning application has been submitted for the scheme and comprehensive tender documentation, including detailed drawings and technical specifications, has been prepared for issue to suitably experienced local contractors.