Energy audits key to unlocking hidden carbon and energy savings
Water pumps and pump systems manufacturer, Wilo UK, highlights the importance of energy-saving audits in helping companies get closer to their net zero goals in line with government climate change targets.
With the government pledging to reach net zero emissions by 2050, there is pressure on companies to set out detailed plans for how they will move to a low-carbon future, including retrofitting buildings with upgraded energy-efficient equipment. With sustainability at the forefront of its product innovation, Wilo is helping clients meet their net zero goals through the use of its energy-saving audits. By carrying out detailed site surveys, Wilo is able to demonstrate how clients can significantly reduce energy usage and carbon emissions, as well as costs – something that was proven during the company’s recent work with a leading student accommodation provider at its Bristol residence.
Wilo is currently working on multiple sites with the student accommodation provider, helping the company to get closer to its 2030 net zero carbon target. When Wilo put forward a proposal to replace the existing, inefficient booster set with an energy-efficient upgrade, the company was keen to understand the impact this would have on its energy and carbon savings.
Jason Cox, Wilo’s National Business Development Manager, said: “We have a planned preventative maintenance contract in place for all of the company’s student accommodation buildings across the UK. But we recognised an opportunity for the company to benefit even more from our expertise – by showing how it could move closer to its sustainability goals. Major energy and carbon savings could be made by replacing the company’s existing, inefficient, fixed-speed booster set with a highly efficient alternative from Wilo. “For this project, we carried out a detailed site survey, which resulted in an energy solutions report. This provided evidence of how the capital cost required to upgrade the booster set would be offset against energy savings over a specific timeframe. We also demonstrated significant carbon savings alongside the return on investment.”
Wilo’s energy-saving audit for the student accommodation residence revealed the provider could save at least £5,868 every year on energy expenses through straightforward improvements to its pump installations. This meant the project would pay for itself in just over three years, and this return on investment could be achieved even sooner, given the current rise in energy prices. On top of this, the equipment upgrade would result in an impressive carbon saving of 10,383 kg per annum.
Wilo also carried out a full test and verification plan to validate both the cost and energy savings that the customer would achieve. Jason added: “These calculations show the hidden carbon- and energy-saving opportunities most building owner/operators have within their grasp. Something as straightforward as replacing old booster sets or HVAC pumping equipment can make a vital difference. In addition to these savings, the project also provides the customer with additional peace of mind, through an extended warranty, whilst ensuring the company meets its sustainability goals.”
Jason concluded: “Pumps across the world use about 10% of the global energy consumption, and around 90% of today’s installed pumps are outdated and inefficient, so it’s important to demonstrate just how simple it can be to make very worthwhile changes. The government’s net zero pledge will be at the forefront of many operators’ minds, and if they can reduce carbon emissions and energy expenses while gaining a return on investment, it’s a win-win.”
