Could This Commercial Property Have the Highest EPC Rating in the UK?
Introduction
Achieving the highest EPC rating—A+—requires becoming fully self-sufficient, a goal that seems unattainable for many businesses. Yet, Airedale Springs has achieved that, proving it is possible with the right vision and investment.
This commercial property stands as a beacon of sustainability, meeting and surpassing the highest environmental standards.
Airedale Springs have earned multiple awards, including being named Sustainable Business of the Year at the Keighley & Airedale Business Awards – read about it here: Sustainability & Net Zero Commitments | Airedale Springs. Future Building are thrilled to be part of this journey!
Its achievements include earning an A+ EPC rating, prestigious awards like:
- Business Growth Award at the EEF Future Manufacturing Awards
- Manufacturer of the Year, Small to Medium Enterprise of the Year, and
Employer of the Year at the Telegraph & Argus Bradford Means Business Awards - Sustainability Award at the Telegraph & Argus Bradford Means Business Awards in 2024.
By selling surplus electricity back to the grid, Airedale Springs even demonstrates the financial viability of sustainable practices.
When the company tasked Future Building with conducting its Energy Performance Certificate, the goal was to accurately reflect its immense strides in reducing carbon emissions. Our team delivered just that, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to ensure every detail was accounted for.
Background
Airedale Springs’ mission to go beyond reducing energy bills led to an ambitious investment in low-carbon technology, setting new benchmarks in sustainability.
The property now boasts:
- 432 solar panels across its entire roof.
- A comprehensive battery storage solution, comprising 3x SunSynk 50Kw inverters and 6 x 61kWh battery racks housed in a standalone unit.
This advanced setup not only stores energy for later use but also allows the company to sell surplus electricity to the grid, exemplifying an innovative approach to energy management.
The Process
1. On-Site Inspection
The process began with a thorough on-site inspection, where every detail was meticulously recorded:
- Measurements: Using handheld laser technology, we crafted precise, millimetre-accurate floorplans.
- Systems Analysis: We examined glazing, heating, and lighting systems, capturing model numbers to assess efficiency.
- Construction Materials: Detailed notes were made on insulation and other relevant factors to inform the final EPC calculation.
2. 3D Modelling
Next, we utilised Design Builder software to convert the gathered data into a 3D model of the property. This step offered critical advantages:
- Discrepancy Detection: Any anomalies could be identified and addressed early.
- Renewable Energy Simulation: Solar panel placements and sun path orientation were fine-tuned to maximise energy capture.
Our Findings
We proudly awarded Airedale Springs an A+ EPC rating, a monumental achievement that positions the company as a sustainability leader.
- Carbon Negative Status: The property removes more CO₂ from the atmosphere than it emits, a benchmark for sustainable operations.
- Live Energy Monitoring: A cutting-edge display system offers real-time data on energy production, battery storage, and consumption, promoting energy-conscious behaviour.
- Energy Management: By analysing half-hourly energy meter data, we identified and optimised high-demand processes, further lowering costs and improving efficiency.
To Conclude
Airedale Springs exemplifies how commercial properties can achieve unparalleled sustainability. With the installation of advanced carbon reduction technology by AlphaGen Energy, they have set a new standard for what businesses can accomplish.
By collaborating closely with Chairman Tim Parkinson, who has been instrumental in driving these initiatives, we ensured that every detail was accounted for to maximise their EPC potential.
This achievement challenges business owners everywhere to rethink their approach, proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. Airedale Springs is not just raising the bar—it’s redefining it.