Energy Audit Case Study for Farm Shop

Client: West Cornwall-based Farm Shop
Service Provided: Energy Audit by Community Energy Plus
Objective: Identify opportunities to reduce operational costs and operate more sustainably

Background

A local business at the heart of the community, were looking for ways to operate more sustainably while reducing operational costs, so contacted us to help develop a tailored decarbonisation plan, providing a structured roadmap to boost energy efficiency, lower emissions, and cut energy bills.

Audit Overview

The audit included an in-depth assessment of the farm shop’s energy use and infrastructure, identifying practical actions that matched the scale and nature of the farm shop’s operations.

This case study illustrates how local businesses can take meaningful steps toward decarbonisation without sacrificing operational efficiency. From behavioural changes to renewable energy investment, this strategy offers a model for sustainability in the rural retail sector.

Key Recommendations

Short-Term Actions:

• Use the smart meter’s real-time monitor to track energy useage and encourage energy-efficient behaviour.

• Install a timer on the immersion tank to avoid heating water unnecessarily.

• Fit water-saving devices and optimise appliance use to cut unnecessary energy consumption.

Medium-Term Actions:

• Minimise draughts to improve indoor comfort and reduce heating demand.

• Enhance waste management practices to lower environmental impact.

• Explore introducing EV charging points to promote and support sustainable travel for staff and customers.

Long-Term Actions:

• Install a ground-mounted solar PV system with battery storage to generate cleam, renewable energy on-site and reduce electricity reliance by up to 58%.

• Replace plug-in heaters with energy-efficient heat pumps for sustainable space heating and cooling.

• Explore low-carbon water heating options to further reduce emissions.

Results and Impact

By following the recommended improvements, the farm shop could save over 17 tonnes of carbon emissions annually and thousands of pounds per year on energy bills. Additionally, the upgrades would be a significant step toward long-term environmental responsibility and provide a greater resilience to rising energy prices.

Conclusion

This case study illustrates how local businesses can take meaningful steps toward decarbonisation without sacrificing operational efficiency. From behavioural changes to renewable energy investment, this plan offers a model for sustainability in the rural retail sector.