Category Archives: Energy Conservation

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npower Employees Prepare To Run For Charity

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npower employees in Solihull have been limbering up as they prepare to pound the pavements for charity.

More than 110 employees from npower’s offices in Solihull will be undertaking a ten kilometre run to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. They’ll be racing against each other to try and reach their fundraising target of £4,000. The race will start at Tudor Grange Park and participants will make their way around the surrounding area.

Ruth Worton, Charity Manager at npower, said: “This is the first time that we’ve organised a run for Macmillan in Solihull and it’s great to see so many people signed up to take part. Whatever their ability, everyone has been training really hard in the run-up to the event. Macmillan is a charity close to many of our hearts and we can’t wait to get out on the track and start raising money for such a good cause.”

Over the last eight years, npower’s partnership with Macmillan has reached more than £5 million. This has been achieved through large scale fundraising events and through individual efforts from staff who have run marathons and climbed mountains. This year there will be a number of 10K runs and charity walks taking places at npower offices throughout the UK.

Ruth continued: “We’re proud to have such a long term partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, which is valued at more than £5 million. It’s a cause that is close to home for many of our employees and this event is another example of their passion to make a difference and help people affected by cancer.

“I’d like to wish everyone taking part good luck and thank them for their enthusiasm and support for the fantastic work that Macmillan does.”

Via EPR Network
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New Energy Consulting Firm Finds Tax Credits For Building Owners

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John Schultz has launched Schultz Energy Consulting, LLC, to help homeowners, developers and other entities take advantage of tax credits for meeting federal heating and cooling energy consumption requirements.

Schultz Energy Consulting conducts assessments to determine if building owners are eligible for tax benefits under the Energy Efficient Home Credit program (known as Section 45L), which was established through the Energy Policy Act of 2005.

According to Schultz, individual home owners, apartment complex owners, developers and contractors, as well as partnerships, corporations and trusts, can qualify under the 45L program for a $2,000 tax credit per unit for using energy efficient construction measures.

Eligible buildings must have had construction substantially completed after Aug. 8, 2005, and before Dec. 31, 2011. Construction includes renovations and rehabilitation.

“Most recently built homes and multi-unit residences already exceed the standards and qualify for these tax benefits,” Schultz says.

Schultz adds that eligible buildings must meet heating and cooling energy consumption requirements of Section 45L(c) and be certified in accordance with guidance from the Internal Revenue Service.

“Typical buildings that qualify for the tax credit include traditional homes, apartment complexes, condominiums and assisted living facilities,” Schultz says.

Schultz is a Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) certified Home Energy Raters (HERS) rater. He is a longtime resident of Stevens Point and was previously employed in the commercial real estate and financial services industries.

More information is available by contacting Schultz Energy Consulting at (715) 340-2970 or at www.schultzenergyconsulting.com.

Via EPR Network
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RWE npower Energy Challenge won by Birmingham undergraduates

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A team of undergraduates from the University of Birmingham has won the prestigious RWE npower Energy Challenge by coming up with an innovative energy solution for future generations.

RWE npower Energy Challenge is an international competition which tasks students with devising a solution to the biggest challenge facing the energy sector: “How can an energy company respond to climate change, maintain a secure supply and more importantly ensure that energy bills are affordable?”

The Birmingham-based team, calling themselves Green Grid Consultancy, won the competition for their innovative idea to use a hybrid wind and wave generator. The project involved combining two forms of generation at the same site, this could reduce operating costs, improved power output and has no carbon emissions. Each member of the winning team was awarded £1,250, and £5,000 for Birmingham University.

The RWE npower Energy Challenge has been running for five years. With hundreds of students across the UK taking part, this year the competition had an international feel with two teams from Eindhoven University in Holland making the final.

Ayekame Tseja, captain of Birmingham’s Green Grid Consultancy team said: “We’re thrilled to be winners of the RWE npower Energy Challenge, and that our ideas stood out against such a strong field of competitors. Taking part in a competition that’s challenged us on such an important topic has been a great experience, and we’re thrilled that our hard work has paid off.”

The judges, comprising of senior board members from RWE npower including Volker Beckers, CEO of RWE npower were impressed with the unique nature of the team’s solutions.

Volker said: “The Green Grid Consultancy presentation was excellent and stood out due to the original way the team tackled the challenge of cutting emissions, whilst ensuring clean energy provision for the future. We’d like to congratulate them on winning the competition.”

“Among the goals of the Energy Challenge is encouraging and rewarding young people studying engineering and science, and attracting new students to these important topics. We’ve been impressed with all the entries to this year’s challenge, but special congratulations must go to our winners.”

Recent research from the Science for Careers Expert Group report has indicated that there could be a major shortage in science-skilled workers in the UK workforce, with a shortfall of 324,000 workers with the relevant skills by 2014. npower believes competitions like the Energy Challenge can play an important role in helping science undergraduates into industrial jobs and filling this skills gap.

Via EPR Network
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npower’s Fanpower Stadium Launched by Robbie Savage and Chris Kamara

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Two of football’s most colourful characters gave office workers a “lift” while filming a fun video for Football League sponsors npower.

ESPN Pundit Robbie Savage and Sky Sports favourite Chris Kamara took workers by surprise as they performed a chorus of terrace favourite ‘we are going up’. However, rather than singing in the stands, they were in the unconventional setting of a lift.

The hilarious footage was captured to promote the launch of npower’s new initiative ‘The Fanpower Stadium’. Hosted on Facebook, this app will give Football League fans the chance to win a range of prizes including cash prizes for their club.

On the video, Savage said: “I think football chants can be best described as the language of football fans, but taken out of the natural context of a football stadium they become slightly surreal, as today’s reactions show.

“The Fanpower Stadium, which has prizes for fans and clubs up for grabs, will get everyone talking about their team in the right place, so it’s a winner for me.”

Chris Kamara added: “It was unbelievable stuff today. Nowadays I’m only in the stands to report on the games, so it was great to get my chance to chant. Hopefully us two chanting in the wrong place, will remind people that it pays to show your support in the right one.

“Robbie should definitely stick to the dancing, I clearly out sang him and it’s this sort of competitiveness we want to see in the Fanpower Stadium.”

npower are inviting fans to show their support for their Football League team at facebook.com/npowerfootballleague by grabbing their seat in The Fanpower Stadium.

Once ‘inside the stadium’ there are two pots of money available for clubs to win; one cash prize of £10,000 will be awarded to the club in each League who hits their real average attendance figure first, with a second pot of £20,000 up for grabs to the club in each League whose fans talk the most about their club on Facebook.

Fans can score points for their club by sharing content or mentioning keywords such as club name or manager and player names on Facebook or in their Twitter feeds. Fans also have the chance to win spot prizes every week which include signed shirts, balls and mystery prizes.

The competition closes on 1st June however the stadium will be “reopened” at the start of the 2012/13 season.

Via EPR Network
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npower Employee Organises Fundraising Music Extravaganza

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npower employee Lee Judge is organising Judgestock 2012, an annual, one day musical extravaganza that will feature students from the George Salter Academy Saturday School and out-of-hours performing arts playing with professional bands and musicians at The Public in West Bromwich on July 7.

Rus Smith, Extended Schools Manager, has around 200 youngsters taking part in music and performing arts activities every Saturday and is hoping that around 150 of them will be helping make the annual fund raising music festival, in tribute to local man, Simon Turton, who lost his battle with brain cancer last year, when he was just 36 years old.

Lee Judge is hoping around 2,000 visitors will come to this year’s event, helping raise more than £10,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support. In 2011 the Collections Specialist, at npower’s offices in Kingswinford, dedicated the day to his best mate, Simon; the two friends had grown up together in West Bromwich.

Lee said: “When Rus approached me I thought it was a brilliant idea. Already we have nearly 30 bands lined up for the day from metal through soul to tribute bands; giving talented local youngsters a chance to play in a proper music event with professional bands would give them valuable experience for their future. Linking with the school is going to add a new dimension to the charity fundraiser.”

Rus is delighted with the work experience opportunity, saying: “The students are excited at the thought of being able to showcase their talents to a wider-than-usual audience. We hope to have three or four dance acts and a similar number of music acts plus two drama groups as entertainers on the day and there will be students helping with programme design and shadowing the organisers to gain experience of how a professional event is staged.”

The Public has donated its venue for free and Lee’s employer, npower, has said it will match funds up to £1,000. There will activities for kids during the afternoon including Punch and Judy, a bouncy castle and face painting. Fifteen market stalls have already signed up for visitors looking for a little retail therapy.

Tickets can be purchased directly from the Public box office with under-12s admitted free. Students of George Salter can get their tickets direct from Mr Smith.

Via EPR Network
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npower’s Hull Call Centre Gets Set To Go The Extra Mile For Sport Relief

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npower’s Bridge House call centre in Hull is proud to announce its support for Sport Relief 2012. On Friday 23 March, Sport Relief hits the airwaves with a fantastic night of TV and, as the selected regional call centre for the night, 145 members of npower staff will be volunteering to receive donation calls.

npower is dedicating 70 phone lines to taking calls, with staff from all over the business coming in to lend a hand, including npower’s Managing Director of Customer Markets, Giuseppe Di Vita. As well as receiving donations, the team will also be fundraising on the night with various activities taking place. All money raised on site will be added to the £5,000 donation already pledged by npower to Sport Relief.

Kevin McCullough, npower’s Chief Operating Officer, commented: “I’m really proud of our people at Bridge House who are giving up their own time to support this great cause. We have over 140 volunteers, which is a great result and really demonstrates the commitment of our people to supporting important charities like this. Sport Relief brings the entire nation together to get active, raise cash and change lives. Well done to everyone involved.”

Joel Chapman, Executive Relations Manager at npower’s Bridge House office, said:
“It’s been a busy few weeks preparing for the big night on Friday, from making sure the phone lines are all ready, to arranging refreshments to keep our volunteers going. It’s been a great example of how well our people come together to support such worthy causes, and I’m really proud to be involved.”

In 2010 over 90 call centres, staffed by a phenomenal 6340 charitable volunteers, supported the Sport Relief campaign, helping to raise a mind blowing £44 million. This year, Sport Relief is warming up for another huge night of fundraising with the help of the incredible team from npower’s Bridge House office.

As one of the UK’s biggest fundraising events, Sport Relief brings the entire nation together to get active, raise cash and change lives. All the money raised by the public helps people living unimaginably tough lives, both at home in the UK and across the world’s poorest countries. From the Friday of fundraising fun right through to the Sport Relief Mile on Sunday 25 March it promises to be a brilliant weekend. For more information or to find and enter your nearest mile go to sportrelief.com.

Via EPR Network
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npower Introduces New Boiler And Central Heating Care Product

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npower is introducing a new boiler and central heating care product.

The new product is one of the most competitive on the market and includes comprehensive cover for a gas boiler, controls and radiators, as well as an annual boiler service and unlimited calls outs with no call out charge. Labour, repairs and parts are included and are guaranteed for 12 months, whilst customers will have 24/7 access to a dedicated boiler care team at npower’s call centre who they can contact for free. npower will also replace boilers less than seven years old if they are beyond economical repair.

The product is available for any new boiler care customer, even if they do not use npower as their energy supplier.

Emily Stagg from npower, commented: “Research shows that 51% of homeowners would feel annoyed at the expense of a boiler breakdown, so investing in boiler care can offer worthwhile peace of mind should anything go wrong.*

“At npower, we’re always looking to improve our customer offering and this competitive product offers good value for homeowners looking to protect their boiler and central heating all year round. As part of the service, we’re able to offer a comprehensive 30-point boiler service and safety check with one of our Gas Safe registered engineers, which means we will ensure if your system is working properly and then be there for you all year round.

“Now is the perfect time to sign-up as it makes sense to get your system checked after the winter to make sure it’s working properly and hasn’t been put under too much strain over the colder months.”

For more details about npower’s boiler and central heating care, interested parties can call 0800 2944 989 or visit www.npower.com/boilercare.

Via EPR Network
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npower Reveal Only One in Five Young Brits Can Tie a Knot and Half Can’t Climb Trees

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npower has today unveiled research, showing that modern day youngsters are disconnected from the great outdoors, with many unable to build a camp fire (78%), put up a tent (79%) or even tie their shoe laces (45%). When asked if they cared about the environment, more than a third (37%) said no and, incredibly, half of those (52%) said that it’s because “in the future we’ll be able to live in space”.

The figures show that while young people are able to search for clips on YouTube (37%) they’d struggle to search for the local post office by reading a map (81%), and while they may be able to work a DVD player (67%), a huge 87% said they wouldn’t know how to repair a bicycle puncture.

The research indicates that today’s youths have lost their sense of adventure and lack skills which older generations take for granted. Nine out of ten youngsters (91%) are unable to recognise different types of butterfly and 43% cannot remember seeing the stars in the last month.

The lack of interest in the great outdoors is a worry for many parents, with more than seven in ten (77%) saying their child spends too much time watching TV or playing video games.

Survival expert and founder of Woodlore, Ray Mears, comments: “The latest figures are really shocking and I can’t believe our young people are so ill-equipped when it comes to practical skills.

“When I was growing up, I was told ‘You don’t need equipment, you need knowledge to survive in the wild’ and this is something that I truly believe. Simple skills like putting up a tent can teach you important lessons that can’t be learnt without doing them yourself. You learn how to work in a team and communicate with your peers; how to work under pressure and use logic and, most importantly, how to look after yourself and know your strengths.”

In response to these startling figures, npower will today announce the start of Climate Cops SOS, an educational programme which looks for Britain’s greenest young people by working with schools across the country. Working with survival expert Ray Mears, npower hopes to inject passion for the great outdoors back into the hearts of the nation’s youths. To enter the competition, they will have to devise and implement a group activity which celebrates adventure and encourages their fellow peers to go outside and enjoy the great outdoors. 100 winning students will be treated with a trip to the Lake District where they will have a survival master class with Ray himself.

To enter npower’s Climate Cops SOS, children must be aged 11 to 13. Entries should come through their school and they will need to show that they have devised and implemented a group activity, which celebrates adventure and encourages their peers to go outside and enjoy the great outdoors.

For more information visit www.npower.com/climatecopssos

Via EPR Network
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npower Enthuse day comes to Didcot

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npower recently visited students from St Birinus School, Didcot, sparking their interest in engineering by taking part in a npower Enthuse day.

Four volunteers from Didcot power stations joined 230, Year 9 students at the Enthuse day. The programme is designed to inspire and engage students aged 12-14 years old in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through a range of interactive activities which help them think about the impact science and engineering has on their daily lives.

The students were encouraged to think of ways to improve an existing electricity generation idea and product, or to design a completely new concept. They also took part in a series of hands-on activities, helping them to develop their engineering and science related skills and discussed the problem of how the country can meet and reduce the UK’s future demand for energy.

Enthuse, which is part of the npower’s Brighter Futures Programme, aims to inspire young people from their first day at school to their first day at work. This is achieved by helping them to develop their skills and knowledge to make their own choices and empowering them to achieve their vision of a ‘brighter future’ for themselves and for the environment.

Jim Haggan, Didcot A Power Station Manager, said: “I think Enthuse days are very important. It’s our opportunity to give young people an insight into the energy industry and highlight opportunities available. I hope we have inspired some of the students to really consider this industry as a career option for the future.”

Head teacher, Mr Alwyn Richards from St Birinus School, Didcot added: “The variety of activities gave the students an excellent insight into the diversity and challenges which might face an engineer. It was wonderful to see how students of all abilities were engaged in the activities offered. The staff and students would like to thank the people from Enthuse and npower for their enthusiasm and hard work.”

Since the start of the Enthuse programme in 2007, the educational experience has reached out to over 7,100 students across the UK.

To find out more about npower’s education programme and free resources for schools and community groups, visit www.npower.com/education.

Via EPR Network
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RWE npower retains the CommunityMark

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RWE npower has recently retained the prestigious CommunityMark from Business in the Community (BITC) for a further three years.

RWE npower first received the CommunityMark in 2008 and was the first utility business to do so. The award is endorsed by both the Government and the voluntary sector. It is a national standard and the only one of its kind in the UK, which aims to recognise and highlight the positive impact that business can have in the community, through long term commitment and investment.

The rigorous testing process meant that Business in the Community interviewed employees for their opinions about RWE npower’s community programme and their involvement. Community partners including National Energy Action, Macmillan Cancer Support, Community Service Volunteers, Football League Trust and the National Trust were also surveyed.

For over 50 years RWE npower has worked with local communities. During this time, the company has built sustainable relationships which have been recognised through the CommunityMark award. These include:
-£52m was accessed by its Health through Warmth scheme for vulnerable people since 2000.
– In 2010 14% of RWE npower employees took part in volunteering.
– 9,000 students experienced one of the company’s power station guided tours.
– RWE npower worked with over 26,000 youngsters to raise awareness of climate changeand 22 schools received No Power Hour sessions.
– Macmillan Cancer Support has been RWE npower’s charity partner since 2004. The partnership is valued in excess of £4 million.

Dame Julia Cleverdon, Chair of RWE npower Corporate Responsibility Committee added:
“This is fantastic recognition for everyone at RWE npower. I have visited several sites recently and heard from employees about the inspirational work they are doing in local communities. There’s a great spirit of wanting to get ‘stuck in’ and make a positive impact. Achieving the CommunityMark is a great accolade for RWE npower.”

Stephen Howard, Chief Executive of Business in the Community said: “During a considerably tough year these organisations have proved that continuing to listen, engage and respond to the needs of their communities reinforces the fact that excellence in community investment not only has a positive and valuable impact on society, but translates to real business benefits.

“Many have made a long term commitment to the areas they operate in. They work collaboratively and fostered strong reciprocal partnerships to help improve the knowledge and skills in their local communities to ensure that there are people to support the local economy and business.”

The Independent Approvals Panel was impressed by RWE npower’s continued leadership of the community investment agenda and their commitment to making a long-term sustainable difference to their business and communities.

Via EPR Network
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The success of the WakaWaka Solar Lamp

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In the beginning there was light for all – and a little later there was electric light for, well, only some of us: 1.5 billion people still live in darkness. Dutch startup Off-Grid Solutions makes an end to developing countries’ killing kerosene dependency. They want their high-tech, low-cost WakaWaka solar LED lamp to light up Africa ‘like a Christmas tree’.

Via Kickstarter.com, the general public is now enthusiastically pre-ordering WakaWaka´s for 35 dollars each. The minimal support to contribute to their mission is one dollar. Thanks to this innovative way of crowdfunding, WakaWaka grows at the speed of light .And with it, the dream of providing all Africans with a sustainable light solution becomes more real by the minute.

1.5 billion people live off-grid. They depend on kerosene fuel for their basic lighting needs. Annually millions of children suffer severe burns from accidents with kerosene lamps. The toxic fumes cause even more health problems. World Bank reports that each day 780 million women and children inhale the equivalent of two packs of cigarettes as a result of indoor air pollution.

Fuels for lighting take up to 20% of income of people who try to survive on less than $2 a day. This way, the poor stay poor. But there is light at the end of the tunnel: WakaWaka solar LED light.

The WakaWaka (‘Shine Bright’ in Swahili) solar lamp uses the latest in patented solar technology developed by Intivation, allowing for superior charging in any weather conditions.

Each day of free solar charging gives 16 hours of decent reading light. It has different light intensities and fits on a bottle, stimulating recycling and opening up opportunities for joint promotions. Innovative distribution methods will reach even the most remote rural areas. Various accessories (cell phone chargers, radios, etc.) are already in development, which will further enhance livelihood and help people get out of poverty.

Co-founder Camille van Gestel: ‘I genuinely believe that if you can make a difference, you must. I have never done anything with so much passion. The support and inquiries we are receiving for WakaWaka from all over the world are as stimulating as they are heartwarming. We are doing the right thing.’

Let’s hope this new bright light spreads fast, for all and everybody. LED there be light.

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/229055906/wakawaka-is-the-coolest-solar-led-light

http://www.wakawakalight.com

************************************************************************

About Off-Grid Solutions
Founded in 2011 by 4 partners: sustainable entrepreneur, inspirator and guru Maurits Groen, hands-on change maker and entrepreneur Camille van Gestel, carbon emissions consultants Do-Inc, experts emerging markets and finally Paul Naastepad seasoned executive in clean tech industry.

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npower Enthuse Day At Fawley Power Station Sparks Interest In Engineering

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Students from Hardley School and Sixth Form in Holbury, Southampton sparked their interest in engineering taking part in an npower Enthuse day.

Five engineers from Fawley Power Station joined 115, Year 9 students at the Enthuse day. The programme is designed to inspire and engage students aged 12-14 years old in science, technology, engineering and mathematics in a range of interactive activities designed to help them think about the impact science and engineering has on their daily lives.

The students were encouraged to think of ways to improve an existing electricity generation idea and product, or to design a completely new concept. They also took part in a series of hands-on activities, helping them to develop their engineering and science related skills and discussed the problem of how the country can meet and reduce the UK’s future demand for energy.

Enthuse, which is part of the npower’s Brighter Futures Programme, aims to inspire young people from their first day at school to their first day at work. This is achieved by helping them to develop their skills and knowledge to make their own choices and empowering them to achieve their vision of a ‘brighter future’ for themselves and for the environment.

Nick Stockdale, Fawley Power Station Manager said: “I think Enthuse days are very important – it’s our opportunity to give young people an insight into the energy industry and highlight opportunities available. I hope we have inspired some of today’s students to really consider this industry as a career option for the future.”

Thomas Ward, a pupil at Hardley School and Sixth Form said: “I really enjoyed all the activities, especially making catapults. I learnt a lot about which careers are involved with science and engineering. This day has really made me think about my future and different career opportunities.”

Head teacher Andy Dyer from Hardley School and Sixth Form added: “The variety of activities gave the students an excellent insight into the diversity and challenges which might face an engineer. It was wonderful to see how students of all abilities were engaged in the activities offered. The staff and students would like to thank the people from Enthuse and npower for their enthusiasm and hard work.”

Since the start of the Enthuse programme in 2007, the educational experience has reached out to over 7,100 students across the UK.

To find out more about npower’s education programme and free resources for schools and community groups, visit www.npower.com/education.

Via EPR Network
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npower Urges Homeowners To Prepare For Cold Temperatures

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npower, the UK based energy supplier, has revealed that it received an 80 per cent increase in call outs to homes with broken boilers last year and as a result, is urging homeowners to properly prepare themselves in preparation for the cold winter months ahead.

With the Met Office predicting cold snaps, it looks as though winter could finally be on its way and if last year’s temperatures are anything to go by, npower has predicted that some Brits could soon be experiencing problems with their heating systems in the run-up to the festive season.

Last year, npower, which services and repairs boilers, saw call outs to broken boilers increase by 80 per cent in December alone as a direct result of the fiercely cold weather. With the possibility of this year’s temperatures plunging well into minus figures, they are urging homeowners to prepare themselves. .

Chris Thewlis, operations manager for npower, says: “Many homeowners don’t give a second thought to their boiler until the cold weather kicks in. Having your boiler serviced beforehand could detect any small problem that might lead to a major disruption to your heating during a particularly chilly period. Dealing with a potential problem before it escalates could save you time and money.”

The cold weather in Britain often has homeowners calling in to their energy supplier and asking for a gas boiler service or repair. Though people with newer boilers may have repair costs covered by their warranties, many homeowners with older boilers face steep repair bills when their boiler breaks down. As a result, npower has urged people to service their boilers before the cold weather hits to avoid potentially expensive repair costs.

Chris also urged homeowners to make sure they have the right amount of loft insulation, which can be a key tool in heating a home. Loft insulation can also be a significant energy saver, saving homeowners money on energy bills as well as helping to keep them warm.

The recommended amount of loft insulation is 270mm, but government figures released by the Department of Energy and Climate Change earlier this year suggested that more than half of homes in the UK aren’t insulated properly.

Via EPR Network
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RWE npower Renewables Receives Green Light For Clean Energy

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RWE npower renewables, one of the leading UK wind energy companies, has been granted planning permission to build a twelve-turbine wind farm located between the villages of Bozeat, Harrold and Lavendon.

Nun Wood Wind Farm was the subject of a thorough and rigorous public inquiry, held before a Government appointed Planning Inspector. The public inquiry, which concluded in October 2011, was open to all local residents and businesses.

Matt Pinfield, Regional Manager for Eastern England at RWE npower renewables said: “We are delighted with the Planning Inspector’s consent for Nun Wood Wind Farm. It is a superb location for a wind farm – well designed and appropriately sited and will generate enough energy to meet the annual average needs of thousands of homes each year. The Nun Wood Wind Farm will make a substantial contribution to clean energy supply and the reduction in emissions of greenhouse gasses.”

In his written report the Planning Inspector stated: “The degree of harm in landscape and visual amenity is limited. In my judgement the harm is outweighed by the urgent need for renewable energy as promoted in national and regional policies and the wider environmental and economic benefits that it would bring over a 25 year period.”

As well as Nun Wood Wind Farm generating enough electricity to meet the annual average needs of between approximately 13,700 and 15,6001 homes each year, the local community could receive a windfall of at least £540,000 over the lifetime of the wind farm.

This funding would provide a valuable long term source of income for the local community. It is flexible funding that can address what is really important to communities and has the potential to fund large and small projects as well as capital and revenue activities. The annual funding of £1,000 per megawatt (MW) per year would become available when the wind farm is operational and local people can be involved in deciding how it is distributed.

Matt Pinfield added: “We have consulted with the local community during the planning and development of this wind farm and as a responsible developer we will continue to work with the community throughout the next stages of the project as the wind farm is constructed. We will be providing detailed construction and traffic management plans to Milton Keynes Council, Bedford Borough Council and the Borough Council of Wellingborough which will also be available for public consultation.”

Construction of the wind farm presents opportunities for local economic benefit and employment. Whilst current legislation and competitive tender process for each part of the works is followed, it is normal to expect that local suppliers and contractors with appropriate skills will be well placed to tender for contracts.

Via EPR Network
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npower Launches Insulation Scheme To Get Homes Warm This Winter

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npower, a leading energy supplier, has launched a scheme to help homeowners warm up their home and reduce energy wastage. Savvy DIY experts will be able to buy loft insulation for just £1 a roll from npower’s partner Build Center, meaning the average three bedroom semi-detached home can be insulated for just £19.

The scheme, open to everyone regardless of whether they are an npower energy customer or not, also offers free delivery to help ease the process. Furthermore, npower has also developed a video to help novices complete the DIY loft insulation job step by step.

The scheme forms part of npower’s Government obligations to help homeowners cut the amount of energy that is wasted in the UK each year. The Energy Saving Trust anticipates that homes could save as much as £175 a year on their heating bills and around 720 kilograms of carbon dioxide a year, just by installing the recommended 270mm depth of loft insulation.

Bob Jackson, energy efficiency and policy manager for the energy supplier, commented on the scheme: “As an energy company, npower takes its commitment to the environment and to consumers extremely seriously. Rising wholesale fuel costs mean that many people find themselves struggling to pay their utility bills. The £1 a roll offer will help more people to make massive reductions, and savings in their bills and benefits from a warmer home during the long, cold winter months.

“We also know that not everyone is able to install their own loft insulation. That’s why we also offer professional loft insulation meaning that everyone can benefit from the heat savings.”

For more information and to buy insulation at £1 a roll while stocks last, customers can visit www.npower.com/diyinsulation call 0845 270 8250 or visit their local Build Centre.

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npower Contracted To Work On New Oxford Brookes Student Accommodation

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Leading energy supplier, npower, has been appointed to complete the mechanical and electrical installations for two new accommodation blocks at Oxford Brookes University.

Consisting of 318 bedrooms, the new residences will be home to some of the 18,000 students currently enrolled at Oxford Brookes, which is one of the highest-rated modern universities in the UK. The new accommodation is part of wider redevelopment project to provide high-quality living and learning facilities to students.

The new residences will contain modern building systems for safety and security, as well as technology to aid energy efficiency and maintain optimum living conditions. Using specifications from Oxford Brookes’ M&E consultants, Couch Perry & Wilkes, npower has been tasked with designing, building and installing all the mechanical and electrical systems, including heating, lighting, power, water, data, plumbing, sanitary, fire and security systems and access control.

Work began on site in August, with 18 members of the npower team delivering the work. The project is scheduled for completion in March 2012.

As a new building, maximising energy efficiency and keeping energy costs down will be key to the project and so npower will begin by installing a CHP plant within the Energy Centre in the building. This on-site self generation technology will help to meet industry-wide green credentials while also reducing energy usage by providing usable heat as a by-product of electricity generation.

Other innovative energy-saving technology to be implemented includes passive infrared (PIR) radiators, which are motion-activated and so can be automatically switched on and off when a room is occupied or vacated. The accommodation blocks will also be home to a ‘green roof’ made of grass and small plants. These roofs can provide both thermal and sound insulation, and also have an extended lifespan compared to traditional roofs due to the vegetation absorbing water and protecting the waterproofing membranes below.

David Molde, senior contracts manager at npower, commented: “After completing a successful refurbishment project at Aston University in 2010, npower has the necessary expertise and experience to deliver the mechanical and electrical installations for the project here at Oxford Brookes. Fundamental to the development is improved access, security, safety, and facilities for the students so working with the University and its consultants allows us to work with the end users’ needs front of mind.”

The 318 bedrooms across the two accommodation blocks are en-suite, with students able to choose between studio apartments or cluster flats with communal kitchens. The new accommodation blocks will be home to students from July 2012.

For more information, please visit www.npower.com/corporate.

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npower Helps 10,000 SMEs Commit To Save Energy

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10,000 UK SMEs have had a helping hand to reduce their overheads and become more competitive, thanks to the support of energy supplier, npower.

npower has welcomed its 10,000th customer to its Smart Start scheme, a toolkit and advice service which helps SMEs save on their energy bills quickly, through easy to implement energy efficiency measures. These include turning equipment off and managing heating and ventilation systems, which can save up to 10% off their energy bills.

Patrick Harvey, npower’s head of customer loyalty, said: “Helping 10,000 UK SMEs to save energy is a significant milestone for them and us. The Carbon Trust believes that businesses could save 10% on their energy bills through easy energy efficiency measures: if each of these 10,000 SMEs saved 10% on their annual energy bill, up to £5 million* could have been saved already. This is testament to the impact that simple measures, such as those included in the SmartStart help and advice can have. The ethos behind SmartStart is to help businesses realise the savings they can make by providing the right advice and support. It’s great to see so many SMEs are taking energy efficiency seriously, and realising the rewards that can be achieved through such measures.

“We know from the findings of npower’s latest Business Energy Index (nBEI) that 53% of small businesses do not have any methods in place to manage energy efficiency. I suspect this is because many do not have the resources themselves to research and implement energy efficiency measures, so with toolkits such as SmartStart this is taken care of and cost savings are easily achievable.”

npower’s SmartStart service includes a free energy monitor to help SMEs keep a close eye on how much energy they are consuming, so they can see where they can make savings. In addition, SMEs have access to expert advice via a dedicated helpline (0845 070 4019) enabling them to identify the simple measures which will make a big difference.

More information on how npower can help SMEs reduce emissions and cut costs can be found at www.npower.com/Business/SmartStart.

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npower Releases Latest Energy Market Update

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npower has launched its latest energy market update, as part of its ongoing drive to help businesses and energy professionals to better understand the UK power market so that they can more effectively manage their price and volume risks.

Delivered from npower’s award winning Optimisation Desk by expert Magali Hodgson, npower’s fortnightly energy market update report details how even though the microeconomic outlook in the Eurozone remains uncertain leaving Brent volatile, the forecast of above average temperatures and high UK storage levels are giving a healthy outlook to the prompt market.

Magali Hodgson commented: “Forecast of above average temperature for the next couple of weeks and the UK’s gas and power system coping comfortably with the start of the winter, have removed some of the risk premium from the balance of the winter prices, giving a bearish sentiment to the prompt for the moment. It is also interesting to note that summer 2012 and Winter 2013 are now back to levels seen before the Japanese disaster indicating that there is maybe some upside to come as buyers come into the market.

“The question is when will the predicted cold temperature come, and will it be as cold as last winter’s?”

The npower energy market updates are filmed on a fortnightly basis by independent news agency, Energy Live News. They are delivered from npower’s Optimisation Desk, which is a unique service that provides businesses using flexible purchase energy contracts with access to information on the UK wholesale energy market and up to date advice on an individual basis.

More information and the updates can be found at www.npower.com/Large-Business/Energy-news/Market-update/index.htm. Those who would like to suggest a market update topic of interest or to discuss its content can contact Magali Hodgson at npower by emailing business@npower.com.

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npower Urges Public To Act Quickly For Solar Savings

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The 24th – 28th October sees the return of Energy Saving Week, and this year’s focus is on the different technologies and techniques that Brits can employ to help reduce their energy bills.

With each day of the week playing host to a different theme, Tuesday 26th October will be dedicated to Microgeneration, or renewable energy technologies; a topic that npower, the UK’s leading utility provider of solar technology, knows a lot about.

With speculation rife that the Feed-in-Tariffs (FITS) associated with solar power may be reduced as of April 2012, npower is urging any homeowners thinking about going green to act quickly in order to take advantage of the best possible rates.

Environmentally friendly and cost efficient solar PV (photovoltaic) panels are available from £7,350. What’s more, customers who sign up for the system are eligible to reap the rewards of FITs, which essentially pay homeowners for the energy they produce.

Launched in the UK on 1 April 2010, FITs offer homeowners who have had solar PV panels installed, using products and installers accredited under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), 25 years payment for all the clean electricity they produce. This is regardless of whether they use it or export it back to the grid.

Homeowners are paid 43.3p for every unit of electricity they generate, but can also be paid 3.1p for any electricity they don’t use if they choose to sell it back to the grid. Combine this with the savings made on electricity bills, and the average annual FITs income, and savings could be around £1,100 a year for an average 2.7kWp system.*

Helen Booker, solar expert for npower, commented: “Solar PV uses energy from the sun to create electricity to run appliances and lighting in the home. This form of solar technology requires only daylight to operate, so it will still work even on a typically cloudy day in the UK.

“This increasingly popular option uses renewable energy, resulting in zero carbon emissions or other greenhouse gases. Solar PV users could find themselves dramatically reducing their carbon footprint and saving up to almost 22 tonnes of carbon dioxide over a 30 year period.

“If the government goes ahead with the reduction of the FITs rates as planned, it would mean that those taking up the scheme in April 2012 will not receive as much money for their energy as those who signed up prior to the changes, so it really is important to start thinking about installing solar technology sooner rather than later.

“To mark Energy Saving Week, we are encouraging the nation to think about the amount of energy that they use, and urge them to consider greener alternatives such as solar PV.”

npower has a dedicated team working with homeowners to plan, fund and install solar panels and then buy back the energy they generate.

Solar PV can be installed on any home with a roof, wall or free ground area that faces within 90 degrees south, providing that it is not overshadowed by trees or surrounding buildings as shade will decrease how effective the panels are and therefore the energy generated.

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Charles Hendry Joins Swindon School For npower Climate Cops Fun

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Charles Hendry, Minister for Energy at the Department of Energy and Climate Change, Volker Beckers CEO RWE npower and Peter Terium RWE Group CEO joined pupils in Swindon for a Climate Cops Academy.

A group of 60 year 5 and 6 students from Tregoze Primary School years took part in npower’s environmental educational programme Climate Cops.

The Minister joined the students who were shown some simple ways to save energy in an exciting and engaging way. The interactive day included generating electricity with body movement, working with miniature examples of renewable energy sources and using thermal imaging cameras to see the effects of insulation.

Watching and participating in the activities, Charles Hendry commented: “This is a fantastic initiative, which will help young people learn more about where we get our energy from and what that means for the planet.

“I have been impressed by the enthusiasm of the children here today. I am sure that they will take what they have learned away with them and make a big difference to their school and homes.”

Volker Beckers, CEO of RWE npower said: “We are proud of our Climate Cops programme and believe it’s essential to get young people involved and inspired about energy efficiency. Energy is the lifeblood of our society, and a greater understanding of this brings with it respect for generations to come.”

Over 5,000 children have already taken part in Climate Cops Academies in 2011 and the programme has reached 43,000 students since it began in November 2007.

The Climate Cops programme visits schools across the UK in a bid to help them become greener. Working with local councils, npower provides schools with free energy audits and recommendations to help them to reduce their carbon footprint.

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