The Sovereign Grant Annual report has revealed that the Royal Household is set to make a slew of sustainable changes to how they do things, sometimes even changing historic tradition for a more modern and environmentally friendly choice.
Next year it has been reported that the King’s duo of state Bentleys will be moved to biofuel as soon as 2025. Ultimately, the goal will be to replace the royal fleet with electric cars. It’s not just the vehicles that are set for change though, as the recent accounts for the Royal Household have shown that plans are in place to implement sustainable measures across the board.
Keeping Up Historical Appearances
The royal residence Windsor Castle will receive solar panels in the plans, whilst Buckingham Palace will face an evolution of tradition; its gas lanterns will be changed to accommodate electrical fittings. This will improve energy efficiency but still retain their historic appearance. It has been reported that the gas lamps across the estate were turned off during the energy crisis.
The Sustainable King
The royal accounts show an increase of 4% in total emissions from last year. This is due to higher travel and consumption of electricity within the establishment. Business travel emissions were raised by 17% due to the King’s appointment of reign.
The annual report claimed that:
There has been pro-active work to increase the use of sustainable aviation fuel, but availability remains a challenge. There has also been steady progress in transitioning to an almost fully electric motor vehicle fleet.”
Charles for Change
This commitment to change from a large establishment such as the royals, could set a great example for the rest of the country who are moving towards the net zero goal. When one considers that change in tradition is taking place here, albeit seeming slightly insignificant, it does show an example of the level of enthusiasm the monarchy has for the net zero goal.
Government Backed Grants
Applying for government-backed grants such as ECO4, Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and the Great British Insulation Scheme could send you on your way to becoming a sustainable household. Click the button below to see if you are eligible.