Over the past decade the Bridport & West Dorset Sports Trust has invested in a number of energy efficiency and renewable energy measures to reduce the centre’s high gas and electricity demand. These have included a heat recovery system in the pool, boiler upgrades, new pool covers, energy efficient water pumps and LEDs.  All of which have amounted to huge savings (45% reduction in electricity and 32% reduction in gas use).  But with a carbon footprint of still over 400 tonnes of CO₂ a year, more was needed.  With this in mind the Sports Trust contacted Low Carbon Dorset for help to explore further energy saving opportunities.

In an earlier drive to be more efficient some of the centre’s lighting was switched to LEDs.  It was quickly recognised that further carbon and cost savings could be made by converting the remaining lights in the sports hall and squash courts.  34 LEDs were installed at a cost of £13k. With the help of a grant from Low Carbon Dorset to cover 40%, the LEDs will pay for themselves in just over 2 years.  After this the sports trust will reduce its energy bill by £3.4k each year!

Potential opportunities for further energy savings were highlighted in the leisure centre’s energy report.  These included further investigation into more solar PV panels on the centre’s available roof space.  There may also be potential for further savings by exploring alternatives to the centre’s heating and air handling systems.