Funded through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, administered by Salix Finance, and the Royal Borough’s Carbon Offset Fund, the programme has transformed how the centre is heated and powered, replacing gas-fired equipment with modern low-carbon technology that will improve the building’s overall energy performance and create a more comfortable, consistent environment for users.
Delivered in partnership with Leisure Energy, principal contractor for the installation, and Leisure Focus, the programme has replaced ageing, end-of-life systems that were becoming increasingly difficult and costly to maintain. Without this investment in the centre's heating infrastructure, Windsor Leisure Centre would have faced significant operational challenges and potential closure within the next few years. The upgrades are set to reduce the leisure centre’s carbon emissions by more than 800 tonnes each year, as well as lowering utility costs of up to £100,000 annually. The investment also helps future-proof one of the borough's busiest leisure facilities - supporting the council's ambition to become carbon neutral.
Key improvements include:
- Installation of a Net Zero Pod® containing air source heat pumps which provides heating throughout the leisure centre, replacing the gas boilers and combined heat and power unit.
- New, energy-efficient air handling units to effectively manage air temperatures within the leisure centre.
- More than 580 solar panels generating 179,000 kWh in renewable electricity – equivalent to 72 homes annual electricity consumption.
- Upgrades to the pool filtration system and circulation motors to improve water quality and reduce operating costs.
- Associated electrical and building management system upgrades to maximise energy efficiency and performance.
Cabinet Member for Climate Change & Biodiversity, Cllr Karen Davies, said: “We're delighted to see these important improvements completed at Windsor Leisure Centre. Investing in low-carbon technology not only helps us reduce our borough’s environmental impact but also creates a more efficient, future-ready facility for residents and visitors.”
Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Leisure & Performance, Cllr Mark Wilson said: “These improvements are a win for both our residents and our planet. By investing in modern air handling systems and energy-efficient hot water tanks, we’re creating a leisure centre that is less humid and more comfortable to use while reducing its environmental impact. This is part of our commitment to building a cleaner, greener and safer borough, ensuring residents can continue to enjoy high-quality leisure facilities for many years to come.”
The project was awarded £5.4million from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme run by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Director of public sector decarbonisation at Salix Ian Rodger said: “We are delighted to work with Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead. A decarbonised Windsor Leisure Centre creates lasting value for the community and provides a healthier, more resilient space for people to stay active and connected. It’s good news for local people.”
These and further improvements to Windsor Leisure Centre form part of the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead’s wider commitment to building a cleaner, greener and more resilient borough. Get involved with The Climate Partnership by contacting theclimatepartnership@rbwm.gov.uk