Agenda item

To receive and consider the report of the Project Officer.

The Committee received and considered the report of the Project Officer regarding the replacement boiler for Burwell Hall, brought up the agenda with the express permission of the Chair.

The replacement of the boiler has been discussed on a number of occasions by various committees and a final decision was now needed.

Members raised numerous questions regarding the proposed boilers effectiveness and suitability along with it being new technology. The Project Officer confirmed the use of a Fuel-Cell boiler would ensure the council was working towards it target of carbon neutrality by 2028 and that though the technology was not widespread in the UK is it very popular overseas. The supplier had assured her  the boiler was suitable for the size of building.

The Project officer further explained that the Fuel Cell boiler would meet the demands for heating and produce around 50% of the current electricity use of the hall. A built in “mini boiler” would deal with any additional on demand requirements needed for hall users.

It was proposed that the Committee proceed with the procurement of a Micro Fuel Cell Boiler for Burwell Hall, therefore rescinding the resolution contained in minute no. F605 of the Policy, Governance & Finance Committee on 21 November 2022 to install a replacement gas boiler. The motion passed, in line with Standing Order 23(a) with the voting as follows:

In Favour             6

Against  1

Abstentions         0

Recommended:

1.      That, the report and verbal update be noted and,

2.      That, the council proceeds with the purchase of a Micro Fuel Cell (Viessman Vitovalour PT2) to be installed in Burwell Hall.

The Project Office left on the conclusion of this item.