Badger Inks
The Challenge
Badger Inks is an ink cartridge shop in Seaford that also has an online presence. The business moved into new premises in Church Street, Seaford, in December 2015, which had not been upgraded since the 50s. The thermal comfort of the premises was poor and suffered from overheating in the summer and was uncomfortably cold in the winter. The heating was provided by a night storage heater on the shop floor and boosted with an oil radiator and portable electric heaters.
An energy audit identified that new night storage heaters or an air to air source heat pump would provide more efficient heating. As the air to air heat pumps were the more efficient option and provided more energy savings, Badger Inks decided to proceed with this option.
The Process
Alasdair Fortune, the Managing Director at Badger Inks, heard about the LoCASE grants through a local business partnership. With their support, he completed the Grant Application form, got two quotes for air heat pumps and submitted these to LoCASE. Within a few weeks of hearing about the grant, the application was submitted and approved, and Badger Inks went ahead with the installation with local air conditioning specialists, Climachill.
The Result
Badger Inks now has two 3.5kw air to air heat pumps installed by local contractors Climachill. Following the installation of the new heating, the working environment is greatly improved for the staff and customers in the shop and has even increased productivity. The store has now employed a new staff member and the business is set to save in the region of £600 per year in electricity costs.
Testimonial
“It is fantastic having a grant and has helped our business invest in the future. The reduced energy costs can now be invested in man hours, improving our efficiency. The whole process was painless, quick and efficient. The technical questions in the grant application were supported by our business advisor”.
Alasdair Fortune, Managing Director, Badger Inks
Contact LoCASE team at Carbon Smart
T: 01323 790 030
E: locase@carbonsmart.co.uk
W: http://www.carbonsmart.co.uk/locase-project/
