Changeworks, Scotland’s leading environmental charity delivering energy efficiency and low carbon solutions, has welcomed Josiah Lockhart as its new Chief Executive.
Prior to joining, Josiah was CEO of social enterprise support agency FirstPort.
Josiah will be leading on the delivery of Changeworks’ strategy for 2022-25, as the organisation refocuses its work towards one goal: decarbonising Scotland’s homes.
This ambitious plan will see Changeworks grow significantly, scaling up the delivery of services and doubling the size of the organisation to increase its impact. Josiah joins Changeworks at a key time to spearhead this growth to help meet Scotland’s net zero ambitions.
Josiah said: “I’m looking forward to driving Changeworks’ new strategy forward to accelerate the decarbonisation of Scotland’s homes. Changeworks has an outstanding record in delivering energy efficiency, energy advice, and fuel poverty prevention services. That will only grow in the years to come as the need becomes ever more pressing.
“The passion of the staff here shines through in their work, and that dedication is exactly what’s needed if Scotland is going to reach its goals for net zero and energy efficiency standards.”
Heating space and hot water accounts for 79 per cent of energy used in the home, and Scotland has some of the leakiest homes in Europe. The less heat a property keeps in, the more expensive it is to keep it warm.
High energy usage is often a symptom of poor quality building fabric. Measures like external wall insulation are relatively cheap, and can make a big difference.
Changeworks has a long track record delivering energy efficient homes, working with local authorities, housing associations and other partners to create warmer, drier homes that use less energy.
Since 2018, Changeworks has installed over 15,000 energy efficiency measures and over 3,500 low carbon or renewable technology solutions.
The organisation recently renewed its strategic partnership with the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations for a further three years, and delivers more Area-Based Schemes for local authorities than any other organisation.
Josiah said: “Given the energy crisis, improving energy efficiency of homes in Scotland has never been more important. The cost of living crisis presents an acute need for immediate support, but long term solutions are vital to stabilise our energy supply and ensure we are better protected in the future.
Del Redvers, chair of Changeworks’ board, said: “We’re delighted to have appointed Josiah after a very competitive recruitment process. He joins at a pivotal moment both for the organisation and in Scotland’s journey towards net zero.
“Changeworks does important work every day in creating warmer, more energy efficient homes for people across Scotland, and we now need to build on this to continue to maximise our contribution to fighting the climate emergency.”
Josiah has taken over from Teresa Bray, who retired after 14 years at the helm earlier this year.
Are you struggling to pay energy bills?
Find out who you need to contact to get help.