Warmer weather and energy-saving initiatives have been credited for Moray Council slashing its power bills to an 11-year low.
The authority has reported a reduction of £27,000 in its costs for 2018/19 compared to the previous year, which represents about 10% despite prices for electricity, gas and oil increasing during the time.
Installing water-saving urinal flushing controls and draught-proofing, as well as awareness courses, have also contributed to the savings.
Last year, nearly 1,000 school pupils and staff received training on how they can help save energy.
The latest figures do not include a programme to replace street lights with LED bulbs, which have generated further annual savings of nearly £400,000.
Aaron McLean, chairman of the council’s policy and resources committee, said: “For an authority aspiring to become carbon neutral by 2030, it’s reassuring to see that we’re making great progress in lowering our carbon emissions and reducing our energy consumption.
“Not only is this better for the environment, it’s reducing our operational costs and is expected to save us £100,000 on our climate change levy.”
Energy bills at Moray Council plunge to 11-year low
