Lady Sew and Sew received an OxFutures energy audit and grant to carry out a plethora of energy efficiency measures.

Lady Sew and Sew, a sewing and crafting company based in Oxfordshire, has been making strides towards reducing its energy consumption and carbon footprint. They have implemented a range of energy efficiency measures, including the installation of air source heat pumps, replacement of old extractor fans and skylight panels with insulated units, and energy-efficient LED lighting.

The Building

The premises consist of a main warehouse style building constructed around 1906, now used as a shop and showroom, plus two extensions built in the 1970s. In total the building covers approximately 745m².

The Environmental Information Exchange (EiE), a not-for-profit organisation based at Oxford Brookes University, carried out a site visit in January 2022.

Air source heat pump

One of the most significant changes made by Lady Sew and Sew is their move from gas to electrical heating. The company has isolated their gas boilers, which are now no longer in use and have installed air source heat pumps in their main warehouse areas and offices, resulting in a dramatic reduction in gas consumption. As a result of the changes, gas consumption fell by 58,130 kWh from the 2021-2022 heating season (Sept-Feb) to 2022/23, whilst electricity consumption only rose by 6,059 kWh. The financial savings over the six months were around £1,000.  This saving will go up significantly when the business’ very competitive pre-Ukraine war gas tariff contract ends.

Removing extractor fans

Following the recommendation of their energy assessment, Lady Sew and Sew removed their old extractor fans. These units were no longer required to provide fresh air into the building, but were causing warm air to be lost to the outside when the heating was on, wasting energy.

LED lighting 

The replacement of discharge lamps and halogen units with LED lighting, has helped reduce energy use and maintenance as well as providing improved lighting quality. 

Insulated roofing panels

As much as 25% of heat is lost through the roof in an uninsulated building. Lady Sew and Sew installed new insulated roofing panels, which has helped to reduce heat loss and improve the energy efficiency of their premises. They also replaced their old single skin and faded skylight panels with insulated clear units, which allows natural light to enter the building and reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day. This improves working conditions as well as saving energy.

Lady Sew and Sew’s have comprehensively implemented the advice they were given, resulting in significant reduction in their energy consumption and carbon emissions and making their business resilient to energy price rises. By investing in energy-efficient technology they have been able to achieve significant savings in gas consumption and reduce their carbon footprint. Hopefully, more businesses will be inspired by their leadership and take steps to become more sustainable in Oxfordshire and beyond.

Overall, Lady Sew and Sew received an OxFutures grant of £10,000 towards the energy efficiency changes mentioned above.