The Green Energy Saving Scheme, which has led to the reduction of 2,142 tonnes of annual carbon reductions in churches since its introduction 3 years ago, is to be retendered for a greener future.
Introduced to the Diocese of Leeds in 2015 after the Ven Paul Hooper and Diocesan Environment Officer, Jemima Parker, conceived the idea, 212 churches in the diocese now purchase their electricity and/or gas through the Green Journey, delivering an estimated total of £105,846 annual savings.
“By working in a dynamic partnership with a large commercial energy management company we have been able to help churches switch to a renewable electricity and carbon neutral gas tariff, usually at no additional cost,” explained Jemima, who has worked with Green Energy Consulting over the past three years to improve their service and develop the scheme.
Green Energy Consulting now work with a number of other Dioceses and denominations including Sheffield, Litchfield, Blackburn, Chester, Ely, Guildford, the United Reformed Church and the Northern Baptist Association.
“One of the real bonus’ of the scheme has been the complementary energy surveys for our churches,” said Jemima.
“327 churches in the Diocese have taken up this offer and have a report that should help them improve the energy efficiency of their buildings. We are one of a tiny minority of dioceses who have this kind of information.”
The Green Journey package also includes a VAT checking service, with £31,031 reclaimed to date for 45 churches who were overpaying. For some churches who have had previous difficulty with their supplier, the Green Journey has proved greatly supportive, as the account management service deals with VAT for them. 
The scheme has now reached the end of its contract period and is being retendered to ensure that churches are receiving the best possible service. The closing date for tenderers is 27th February. For any companies interested in providing these services, they can contact Jemima Parker at Jemima.parker@leeds.anglican.org
For more information about Green Journey (pictured) visit their website. For frequently asked questions about who Green Journey are and the scheme follow this link, or for more about the Green Journey diocesan scheme click here.
Finally, if you would like more information about how the Green Journey could help your church or for a no obligation quote please contact Craig Hogg, Green Journey Ecclesiastical Account Manager, on craig@greenjourney.org