Ellis Guilford is a maintained 11-16 school in Nottingham with more than 1300 pupils. In 2018, they chose Save Energy 2 Day to switch the lighting across all of their buildings to LED.
Assistant Business Director Amanda Ludlow first became aware of the potential savings with LED lighting by working with a school cluster involved in the Less CO2 programme.
They chose Save Energy 2 Day “due to their expertise and their professionalism. They are clearly experts in their field and this has been evident from day one.”
There were regular meetings throughout the project and queries were dealt with immediately, said Amanda. “On a project as large as this, it is essential that trust and good working relationships are built. I can confirm this has been the case.
“Throughout the process, communication has been consistent. Our views and considerations have always been taken into account.”
To cover the upfront cost of the work, Save Energy 2 Day helped them secure interest-free Salix funding.
“My first thought about the funding was that it was too good to be true,” said Amanda. However, “once we had the site survey and saw the savings with LED lighting, it would have been imprudent not to do it.”
Amanda was confident that the savings on energy bills would cover the cost of the repayments. “Salix have rigid criteria for acceptance, and they will only fund works where the projected savings are achievable.”
When it came to applying for the funding, Save Energy 2 Day managed the process. “Their expertise in this area is far superior to mine,” said Amanda. “They were able to ensure that we met the funding criteria.”
Not only is the school saving on its energy bills, but the reduction in maintenance works on lighting saves time and hassle for the site team. It has also resulted in a better learning environment.
“Staff have commented on how comfortable and bright the lighting is within their classroom and across the site,” Amanda said.
“I am looking forward to seeing the savings start to show on our bills, and I know that at the end of the repayment period the savings made will further benefit the school.
