In the public sector, many otherwise good energy projects fall at the funding hurdle. Of course, Salix funding has been invaluable for measures with a payback less than five years. But, there isn't yet a simple equivalent for the longer pay-back periods needed for whole-building refurbishment or the large capital sums for CHP plant or even heat networks.

Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council are exploring ways to develop a funding vehicle to accelerate investment in low carbon infrastructure across the county.

We'd be really pleased to hear from anyone who has already trodden this path or has advice to offer.

Nick will be attending January's 2degrees Live event, 'Raising The Energy Performance of Your Properties', which will take place on 25th January 2013. If you are interested in attending please contact Matthew Eastick on +44 (0) 1865 597 640 or matthew.eastick@2degreesnetwork.com