Unitary Engineering Services: The sky’s the limit

Business with a purpose

UES have been providing heating and cooling solutions since 1986. A family-run business, they’re committed to making a positive impact in the community and continuously seek ways to minimise their environmental footprint. It’s inspired them to undertake the journey to B Corp certification. After a referral put them in touch with the Low Carbon Business Support team, they’re now using a Green Business Grant to kick things up a notch.

Realising the benefits of solar

With a grant of almost £5000 towards the installation of solar panels, UES maxed out their roof capacity, enabling them to generate 15kw of energy – enough to power 500 laptops simultaneously. The output is ideal to power-up their air conditioning system which stops the offices from overheating in summer, and when not in full use can export electricity back into the grid with performance tracking via an app. The result is a cost saving from £300 a month upwards. 

Creative problem solving

With the solar panels taking care of energy supply, now Adam is looking to reduce demand. Fitting sensors to the lighting system keeps them off unless needed, while a hybrid system including heat pump for the water and heating will cut down on boiler usage. 

Replacing the building’s existing windows isn’t an option, however Adam is looking to solve the issue by putting more grant funding from their £15,000 entitlement towards secondary interior glazing. This will improve heat retention in winter and cut over-dependence on aircon during the summer, plus bringing added advantages in terms of soundproofing and security. 

Adam is so enthusiastic about the changes that he’s been encouraging his business neighbours to sign up for their own Green Business Grant.