Agenda item

To gain member input into the draft Net Zero Action Plan prior to its adoption by Cabinet (report of the Assistant Director – Regulatory enclosed).

Consideration was given to the report of the Assistant Director – Regulatory which asked the Panel to provide input into the draft Net Zero Action Plan prior to its adoption at Cabinet.

The Environment and Sustainability Officer attended virtually and highlighted the following points:

• The draft Net Zero Action Plan supported the Council’s commitment to achieve net zero by 2040.
• It set out a pathway which included potential projects and actions;
  • Fleet decarbonisation: Transition to electric vehicles would be in line with the government’s zero-emission mandate. Clarification was noted that the ban applies to the sale of non-EV HGVs (under 26 tonnes by 2035, over 26 tonnes by 2040), not their operation.
  • Exploration of alternative fuels such as Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and technologies such as solar mats for vehicle hydraulics.
  • Improvements to operational buildings, including EV charging points, HVAC upgrades, and solar panels.
  • Work on social housing retrofits and to be energy efficient at sewage treatment works and pump stations.
  • Behavioural changes, engaging with staff, and creating a Green Champions group.

• The plan was dynamic with certain projects being removed or added following feasibility studies.
• External funding would be sought to support delivery, by having an approved plan this would strengthen funding bids.
• Approval of the plan did not commit the Council to immediate financial obligations.

Members considered the report and made the following comments;

• Members asked how other local authorities were progressing with solar mats for fleet vehicles.
  • The Environment and Sustainability Officer confirmed that West Lindsey had trialled them, but early results were less positive than expected. Once further feedback was gained the members would be updated.

• It was noted that the electric vehicle (EV) range for waste collection vehicles was poor, especially in adverse weather. How would this be addressed.
  • The Environment and Sustainability Officer acknowledged the issue and explained that technology was improving. Government deadlines allowed some flexibility, and future advancements should improve the range of electric vehicles.

• Members asked if SHDC currently sourced green energy.
  • The Environment and Sustainability Officer would confirm with procurement and update the plan accordingly.

• Members asked why new waste collection vehicles had been purchased as diesel rather than electric. Members expressed concern that this contradicted the net zero ambition.
  • The Environment and Sustainability Officer explained that the technology for larger vehicles was not yet sufficient for operational needs, infrastructure limitations also influenced decisions. Where possible, greener features such as electric bin lifts had been included.

• Members asked if hydrogen had been considered as an alternative fuel.
  • The Environment and Sustainability Officer confirmed that hydrogen was referenced in the plan but was still at an early stage of development. Further investigation would be undertaken.

• Members enquired what the strategy was for recycling or disposing of EV batteries.
• The Environment and Sustainability Officer acknowledged this was a valid concern and committed to investigating regulatory requirements and best practice for battery disposal and would report back to the Panel.

• Members asked if the plan included battery storage for solar energy at depots and offices.
  • The Environment and Sustainability Officer noted that battery storage was being considered, but current technology had limitations during power cuts unless advanced systems (e.g., Tesla Powerwall) were used. This would be explored further as part of feasibility work.

AGREED:

1)    That following consideration of the draft Net Zero Action Plan, the Panel feedback be noted.

2)    That the recommendation to Cabinet for the adoption of the Net Zero Action Plan be supported.