Energy Efficiency Grants for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises case study: Berrydale Swim School
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This case study explores an energy efficiency project that received funding through the Energy Efficiency Grants for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises.
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Project snapshot
| Equipment type | Electric heat pump for swimming pool |
|---|---|
| Grant amount | $25,000 |
About the business
Berrydale Swim School is a small learn-to-swim school based in Sunbury, Victoria. Its main goal for the community is to support a strong water safety culture.
The school provides water safety and learn-to-swim lessons in the local and surrounding areas for beginner to advanced swimmers. The school caters to all ages from 6 months old to adults in their 80s.
Berrydale Swim School's journey
1
Berrydale was considering installing an electric heat pump, but needed 3 phase power to allow for the correct sized equipment to operate efficiently. This would add extra cost to the project.
Timing for the installation was also a major consideration. The school operates on a term basis and did not want to cancel classes and lose revenue. Access for installers would therefore need to be coordinated during term breaks.
Berrydale needed to find a company that could provide the right product, align with their schedule and do the job efficiently at an affordable price.
2
When sourcing the right supplier and installer for the heat pump, the school discussed:
- available timeframes
- delivery of the equipment
- installer availability
- options for when payments could be made.
The grant funding upgraded power from single to 3 phase and replaced the gas fired boiler with an energy efficient heat pump.
The installer used pre-installed solar provisions so the heat pump disperses heated water around the pool more efficiently while operating on its own schedule.
Coordinating the different trades to complete the job in the desired timeframe was well managed.
Accessing the grant
While looking for quotes for suppliers and installers of a heat pump to see if it could fit into their budget, one of the suppliers told the school about the Energy Efficiency Grants for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises.
'Whilst any grant application can be extensive it is well worth the time. Once we had all the information the process was easier,' said Berrydale Swim School owner Donna Mills.
'The grant allowed for other funds to contribute to the total outlay and ensure the best options right from the start.'
3
This installation of the heat pump resulted in:
- no more gas use (even during winter) which reduced overall energy costs and carbon emissions
- a lower temperature setting needed to achieve the right pool temperature
- less energy waste
- less need for other equipment
- a more consistent pool temperature resulting in greater comfort for staff and swimmers.
Electricity use and costs have increased but the school has benefited from their generated solar power and lower heating requirements during the warmer months.
Since implementation of the heat pump, a third solar panel and battery installation has been completed. The centre now boasts 98 panels and 3 batteries to capitalise on more natural energy and reach closer to zero emissions.
Donna said they are always looking for ways to improve sustainability.
‘Researching new products and ways to insulate or use power better is a big part of our business R&D so we will definitely look for future projects,’ Donna said.
‘We feel we are heading in the right direction for a more environmentally friendly business model.’
Advice for other businesses
Donna’s tips for other businesses:
- There are simple ways to improve your energy efficiency and be more environmentally conscious.
- Searching for grants or no interest loans is a great place to start when researching new and improved products and materials.
- Talk to manufacturers of the equipment you use and other professionals in your industry.
- Regularly look at your energy use including how and where it is used.
- Look at how you can fit changes into your budget —an initial expensive outlay could save you money sooner than you think!
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Energy Efficiency Grants for Small and Medium Sized Enterprises
