Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 15, 2025

Purpose:

Content: Resolved:-   (1)          that Cabinet endorse that the Council has formally entered a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in relation to Green Heat Network (GHNF) grant funding totalling £4,939,421 and in relation to the West Bromwich Heat Network project;   (2)          that Cabinet delegate authority to the Executive Director, Finance and Transformation in consultation with the Executive Director of Place and the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Infrastructure to make all necessary decisions in relation to the use and disbursement of the grant funding described in paragraph (1) above;     (3)          that Cabinet delegate authority to the Executive Director Place in consultation with the Executive Director of Finance and Transformation, the Monitoring Officer and Assistant Director Legal and Assurance and the Cabinet Member for Regeneration & Infrastructure, to:   (a)          assess and determine the most appropriate de livery model (with suitable delivery and/or investment partners should opportunities arise) to deliver the Project;   (b)          undertake and approve the procurement of all goods, works and services required to deliver the Project, including without limitation the commissioning of suitably qualified and experienced external consultants to deliver the Commercialisation stage of the Project;   (c)          accept tenders, award and enter contracts to successful tenderers following successful procurement exercise(s) described in paragraph (b) above;   (d)          enter into any arrangements and/or agreements as may be necessary to give effect to the proposals in this report;   (e)          establish and resource appropriate governance arrangements, including without limitation a project management team within the Council, to be funded from grant resources;   (f)            approve all necessary operational decisions associated with delivering the Project, including without limitation signing of agreements in relation to the connection of relevant Council buildings, including high-rise blocks, to a heat network (subject to consultation and feasibility) and signing of heat connection agreements with customers.   (4)          that Cabinet receive a further report for approval in relation to the selected Business Model and implementation plan.