Information about grants available for installing low carbon technology can be found on the following sites:
www.communitysustainable.org.uk
www.lowcarbonbuildingsphase2.org.uk

Many synagogues are old buildings that have not been refurbished for a number of years. In general, the newer the building, the more energy efficient it will be. However there are subsidies available for installing green energy initiatives such as insulation and solar panels, the details of which are below. The Big Green Jewish Website and the Board of Deputies recommend the following tips for energy saving in your synagogue:
- Monitor energy consumption (monthly/quarterly) to check trends.
- Regularly service boiler or heating appliances. Check the heating system has adequate timer and thermostatic controls. If you are reinstalling a boiler please use an Energy Efficient Boiler. Details of these can be found online at the Energy Saving Trust where you can also conduct a search for available funding.
- Commission an energy/environmental consultation. The Energy Saving Trust can provide consultants.
- Install sufficient levels of insulation where appropriate, including windows, doors and lofts. There are grants available for this, see below for more information.
- Monitor the heating level regularly. Overheating by 1°c increases fuel use by 6 – 10%.
- Encourage building users to turn down radiator thermostats (which should be fitted) and turn off all lights in empty rooms and not leave electrical items on stand-by (e.g. photocopiers).
- Ensure general use hot water no warmer than 43°c.
- Check water outlets - fix drips and leaks.
- Install water saving devices – e.g. in toilet systems.
- Examine the energy rating of all new electrical products.
- Make economic use of machines e.g. dishwashers should not be turned on if only half filled.
- Measure and monitor your Synagogue carbon footprint, click here for more information (link to carbon footprint section).
- Consider the use of renewable energy schemes solar panels and ground heat systems etc (see for example www.groundheat.com).