Ladbrokes backs t-mac to deliver energy savings
Energy-savings of £338 000 a year are expected to be achieved by the betting-store chain Ladbrokes following the rolling out of a specially developed energy-management system by t-mac. The full installation follows successful experience with a trial system in the Chesterfield store to control air-conditioning and ventilation equipment.
Nick Eshelby, director of property services and facilities with Ladbrokes, explains, ‘As part of Ladbrokes’ commitment to the environment, we wanted to be proactive in our effort to reduce carbon footprint across our outlets. By working with t-mac, we were able to identify that our immediate solution was to scrutinise the use of in-store equipment to save energy and carbon.’
By monitoring and controlling equipment performance and use in the Chesterfield store, t-mac ensured that air conditioning was only on during business hours, operated in accordance with internal temperatures and was disabled when necessary. Footfall was monitored by a door sensor to provide a people count, which can influence internal temperature during opening hours.
Nick Eshelby said, ‘The t-mac trial at our Chesterfield store identified numerous inefficiencies in the operation of the air-conditioning and ventilation equipment. With t-mac’s advice and assistance, we were able to implement a control strategy with the t-mac device, and we immediately benefited from the energy reduction.’
As the store had relatively low energy bills, the system needed to be small in scale and achieve a return on investment in 18 months. The custom-developed Lad-Mac, as it is called, is specifically tailored to Ladbrokes’ needs.
Lisa Wilkinson, director with t-mac Technologies, said, ‘ Since installation, the control strategy implemented through t-mac has resulted in a 4% energy saving for the site.’
During the trial and design stage, t-mac worked closely with Ladbrokes and store staff to ensure that the system in development could be easily implemented across the estate.
