Energy Audit Case Study for GP Surgery

Client: West Cornwall-based GP Surgery
Service Provided: Energy Audit by Community Energy Plus
Objective: Identify opportunities to reduce energy costs, improve efficiency, and lower carbon emissions.

Background

In an initiative to improve energy efficiency, save money and reduce their carbon footprint, we conducted a comprehensive energy audit to identify immediate and long-term solutions to cut energy bills and enhance sustainability.

Audit Overview

The audit included a thorough review of the practice’s energy consumption patterns, heating and cooling systems, lighting, and insulation. From this, we developed a phased action plan focused on affordability, impact, and sustainability. With expert guidance, even modest changes can lead to substantial financial and environmental benefits, illustrating how small adjustments and strategic investments can transform energy efficiency for local providers.

Key Recommendations

Short-Term Actions:

• Install a smart meter to monitor and manage energy use more accurately.

• Switch to A+ rated appliances to reduce electricity consumption.

• Upgrade to motion-activated LED lighting for greater energy-efficiency.

• Optimise use of air-to-air heat pumps, reducing reliance on fossil fuel gas heating.

Medium-Term Actions:

• Improve building insulation to retain heat and reduce energy loss.

• Seal draughts around windows and doors to prevent cold air entering from outside and to reduce heat loss.

• Conduct thermal imaging surveys to identify areas of hidden energy loss.

Long-Term Actions:

• Install solar panels to generate renewable energy onsite.

• Replace the gas boiler with a heat pump for low-carbon and sustainable heating and cooling.

Results and Impact

By following the recommended improvements, the GP surgery could save over £4,000 per year on energy bills. Additionally, the upgrades would significantly reduce the building’s carbon emissions, aligning with their broader environmental goals.

The improvements would not only enhance daily comfort for staff and patients, but also futureproof the building against changing energy costs and climate-related challenges. This holistic approach ensures that the practice would remain a sustainable, efficient, and forward-thinking healthcare provider.

Conclusion

This case study illustrates how small adjustments and strategic investments can transform energy efficiency for local businesses. Community Energy Plus demonstrates that with expert guidance, even modest changes can lead to substantial financial and environmental benefits.