Bright Little Stars Nursery Unveils Energy Saving Project to Empower Workforce and Combat Rising Costs
Bright Little Stars (BLS) is proud to reveal details of its ambitious Energy Saving Project, a forward-thinking initiative designed to significantly reduce operational costs by embracing eco-friendly practices and mobilising its dedicated workforce in the fight against climate change.
In an era where commercial energy rates have surged, BLS recognizes the urgent need for long-term cost-effective measures. The Energy Saving Project, which began in January 2023, reflects BLS’s commitment to sustainability and fiscal responsibility. With teams across its six nurseries diligently monitoring and promoting energy savings, BLS has achieved a commendable average reduction in energy usage of 5-10% in the first three quarters of 2023 alone. Through this process many employees and teams have been recognised and rewarded.
The project has also seen the successful implementation of solar panels and storage batteries at the Mill Hill nursery, with plans to extend these installations to three more nurseries by June 2024. These efforts are not only in alignment with government initiatives but according to our project estimates will lower Bright Little Stars Carbon Footprint by 10,000 Kg of CO2 annually.
They offer a valuable buffer against rising energy prices. Additionally, this capital investment may qualify for the government’s Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) tax relief scheme for many businesses. Rising energy prices and the recent increases in Corporation Tax have substantially reduced payback periods for these investments.
BLS’s hands-on approach includes quarterly meetings where staff members exchange innovative energy-saving strategies and involve the children in learning about sustainability. Practical measures such as maximising natural light, adjusting thermostats, and turning off standby electrical items have already yielded savings of 15% in individual cases.
The company’s spirit of innovation is matched by its competitive drive; BLS rewards the most efficient nurseries with bonuses for team-building or social events, fostering a culture of camaraderie and collective achievement.
“We are more than a business; we are a community who work together to create growth and positive change,” said Amol Devani, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of BLS. “Our Energy Saving Project is a testament to the power of collective action. As a small to mid-sized business, we know that the winter months can pose significant financial challenges due to increased energy needs. Our Energy Saving Project not only demonstrates our commitment to sustainability but also embodies our innovative spirit in reducing running costs during these critical times.”
To spread the word about the initiative internally, BLS has employed a range of promotional tools, including posters, presentations, and energy-saving badges. The Project Development Manager plays a critical role in collating data and highlighting the progress made by the nurseries each quarter.
As BLS continues to innovate and lead by example, the Energy Saving Project stands as a beacon of how small businesses can make a substantial impact on both the environment and their bottom line.
Featured Photo by Riccardo Annandale on Unsplash.