Where an Authority has in house technical knowledge or expertise relating to carbon reduction opportunities, this should be utilised as early as possible in the process. Like for like replacement would be a typical starting point, however, other options, should be given consideration.
As well as understanding the available options as workable technical solutions in the facility, knowledge in relation to costs of installing and then operating different options will be invaluable. Where this is possible to be assessed within an Authority prior to approaching Project Co, as detailed as possible options appraisals should be undertaken. An important outcome from that process will be an accurate idea of costs involved which will enable an Authority to maximise the value for money it will be able to gain from any subsequent implementation of the change protocol within its contract. If this information can be further developed into a whole life cost model this will give an Authority an even greater ability to fully assess value for money.
Where in-house technical knowledge is not available, an Authority should consider making use of external expertise.