York has once again been recognised on the global stage for its work to tackle climate change — retaining an ‘A’ rating from the independent CDP (formerly Carbon Disclosure Project) for a third time.
The rating places York among only 112 cities worldwide to achieve the top grade, highlighting the city’s climate leadership and transparency.
This accolade isn’t just about international recognition — it reflects the real, practical changes being delivered across the city. From lower energy bills to warmer homes, greener transport options to community energy partnerships, the council’s work is making an everyday difference to those living and working in the city.
One of the city’s key tools in supporting that progress is YorEnergy — a free advice service helping people across York find ways to cut energy bills and reduce emissions. More information is available at yorenergy.co.uk.
Samantha Mills, who’s Heworth home has benefitted from the YorEnergy scheme, explained:
We’ve had some really important work on our home through the YorEnergy scheme and already we’ve seen a difference.
“Bills were higher and the house didn’t stay warm, but with our new insulation things have changed.
“The process to get these improvements done was really easy too, with someone on hand to guide us through the whole process.”
The council is actively working with York Community Energy to expand solar rooftop projects to reduce costs across the city’s schools, with ten school's already completed and another in the pipeline. Alongside this, citywide upgrades to LED street lighting are saving energy and reducing costs for council taxpayers.
York’s longer-term ambition is reflected in major infrastructure investments, such as a proposed developments at the former Harewood Whin landfill site. The council is also exploring new heat networks and commercial partnerships as part of its Local Area Energy Plan — helping lay the groundwork for a more resilient, sustainable energy future.
In council housing, the ongoing insulation programme is improving comfort and affordability for tenants.
City of York Council Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency, Cllr Jenny Kent, said:
This is independent recognition for the third year running that CYC is ahead of the curve, making real headway and building a healthier, energy secure, resilient York.
"We should all be very proud that we are one of only 112 cities globally to be recognised as top ranking for our efforts.
"It reflects the continued hard work of our dedicated staff in obtaining external funding for projects that reduce energy costs and emissions for residents, businesses, and council taxpayers alike. This includes making more people’s homes comfortable and affordable, helping improve air quality, expanding our tree planting, and supporting active travel and investment in supporting bus services.”
To hear more about the city’s climate initiatives and other resident news, sign up for updates at york.gov.uk/EmailUpdates.