Wiltshire Council aims for the county to become carbon neutral by 2030, an ambitious target that is currently facing significant challenges. A recent climate update revealed that county-wide carbon emissions actually rose slightly in the latest year for which data is available, increasing by 0.7 per cent in 20241. This rise was driven by increases in waste, domestic heating, and public sector emissions. Understanding these complexities and the practical steps residents can take is crucial for achieving Wiltshire's climate ambitions.
For Wiltshire residents looking to contribute to the county's net zero targets, making smart energy choices and adopting home energy upgrades can make a real difference. Fuse Energy provides clear pricing and in-app usage data to help you take control of your energy consumption. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy.
Understanding the county-wide target
Wiltshire Council declared a climate emergency in 2019, setting a goal for the entire county to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. This target encompasses all emissions generated within Wiltshire, reflecting a commitment to address climate change at a local level. The council also has a separate, internal target to make its own operations carbon neutral by the same year.
The urgency of climate action in Wiltshire
The push for carbon neutrality by 2030 highlights the urgency of climate action. Achieving this goal requires a concerted effort across all sectors and from every resident, aiming to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition towards a sustainable future.
Recent rise in emissions: where they come from
Despite the long-standing climate emergency declaration, a recent climate update revealed that county-wide carbon emissions actually rose slightly in the latest year for which data is available. Emissions in Wiltshire increased by 0.7 per cent in 2024, driven by rises in waste, domestic heating and public sector emissions.
The gap to the 2030 target
While overall emissions across Wiltshire are 44.5 per cent lower than in 2005, the current rate of reduction is insufficient to meet the 2030 target. Officers have warned that Wiltshire is "substantially more than 10 per cent outside of target" compared to the required reduction pathway to achieve its 2030 ambition.
Impact of budget pressures and funding changes
Delays to the council's own carbon-reduction projects have created risks for its organisational carbon-neutral target. These delays have been exacerbated by budget pressures and the end of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) funding. The PSDS, which provided grants for public sector bodies to fund energy efficiency and heat decarbonisation measures, is no longer accepting new applications. This shift in funding landscape presents a significant hurdle for public bodies, including Wiltshire Council, in continuing their net zero plans.
Wiltshire council's direct influence on emissions
Local authorities, such as Wiltshire Council, directly control only about 30 per cent of the emissions within their area. This means a significant portion of the county's emissions falls outside the council's direct remit.
The role of UK climate policy and funding
National government policy and funding play a crucial role in influencing local authority decarbonisation efforts. The availability of schemes like the PSDS, and their subsequent closure, directly impacts the pace and scope of projects that local councils can undertake. While the closure of the PSDS is a setback, other funding avenues remain available or are on the horizon, requiring public sector organisations to adapt their strategies.
Achieving Wiltshire's net zero target is a collective effort. Residents have a vital role to play in reducing emissions, particularly in areas like domestic heating and waste.
Reducing domestic heating emissions
Domestic heating is a significant contributor to county-wide emissions. Simple changes can make a difference, such as ensuring your home is well-insulated, upgrading to more efficient heating systems, or turning down your thermostat by a degree or two.
Improving energy efficiency at home
Improving your home's energy efficiency is a practical step towards reducing your carbon footprint. This can involve draught-proofing, installing energy-efficient appliances, or switching to LED lighting. These upgrades not only reduce emissions but can also lead to lower energy bills.
Exploring renewable energy options
Consider generating your own clean energy. Plug-in solar panels, for instance, offer a flexible and accessible way to produce electricity at home. These small systems can be installed without professional help and plug into a standard wall socket, making them suitable for renters or those without suitable roof space. SI 2026/848 has applied to compliant plug-in solar since 27 August 2026, allowing one unit per property to be connected via a standard BS 1363 plug. The consumer or their supplier must notify the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) under G98 within 28 days of installation.
Minimising waste and its environmental impact
Waste management also contributes to emissions. Reducing, reusing, and recycling are key. Composting food waste, avoiding single-use plastics, and making conscious purchasing decisions can all help minimise your environmental impact.
Making smart energy choices
Taking control of your energy consumption starts with understanding it. Smart meters provide real-time data on your energy usage, allowing you to identify patterns and make informed decisions. An all-in-one app can offer transparency and control over your energy usage, enabling you to track your consumption and make adjustments.
The benefits of home energy upgrades
Home energy upgrades, such as smart meters and plug-in solar, offer tangible benefits. They can help you reduce your reliance on grid energy, lower your carbon footprint, and potentially save money on your bills. These upgrades put more control over your energy in your hands.
Taking control of your energy consumption
By actively managing your energy use and exploring cleaner alternatives, you contribute directly to Wiltshire's decarbonisation efforts. This shift from passive consumption to active participation is a powerful way to support the county's net zero goal, ensuring that individual actions collectively drive significant change.
Managing your energy bills should be clear and easy to understand. Fuse Energy focuses on straightforward pricing, so you can see exactly what you're paying without unnecessary complexity. If you have a smart meter, you can view detailed usage data through the app or website, helping you understand how you can lower your bills. Our 24/7 human support team is always on hand with fast response times whenever you need help. Click here to switch to Fuse Energy today. Find out about our mission by clicking here.
