Wind energy is a good example of how small-scale renewables can work. The electricity generated can cover part of the electricity needs of building(s). This potential varies depending on several factors, which specialists can help to identify. A good place to start is to check the long-term annual mean wind speed in the target region, to get a sense of the site's suitability for small-scale wind energy.

Photovoltaic (PV) cells are a good example of small-scale renewables. PV modules are panels that convert sunlight into DC electricity, and then into AC electricity. PV modules are reliable and require low maintenance. This technology works well, ideally free from shade, covering electricity needs during the daytime.

Saving for a rainy day

• 14 % of APS’ water needs are met by recycled water
• 36 % is provided through rain-water harvesting 

APS Bank Malta offers typical financial solutions including deposits, home loans, personal loans and investments for both personal and business clients.

The importance of water saving has been communicated to the bank’s employees, leading to more water-conscious consumption. The bank has also focused its efforts on rain-water harvesting and installing water-efficient sanitary fittings.

Online and real-time leak detection

• Early leak detection saves up to 200 m3 of water 
• Leads to € 4 000 in annual cost savings

Atlantis Seafood is an Irish producer of a variety of seafood products. Demand for water during its production process is high. Management was keen to explore ways to reduce that consumption and, after some consultation and research, the company realised that water leaks and wastage was a priority area.

Pinch analysis spotlights energy-saving potential

A princh of this and a good measure of that...

Pinch analysis is a systematic approach to analysing heat flow through an industrial process and has been used by industry for almost 30 years as a way of saving energy. The so-called 'pinch' occurs at the closest point between hot and cold streams in the network. Tools are available to visualise and then optimise processes to gain maximum output with minimum energy loss.   

The sense to make changes that yield the best results

• Impressive water savings from simple flow-restriction devices
• Some 240 m3 recuperated, representing € 670 in annual savings
• Gas/power savings on water heating equivalent to 1 800 kg CO2 per year

Gerstner is a catering company based in Vienna, Austria. It was the first caterer on this scale awarded an Austrian eco-label.

On the farm

Ribby's 'green agenda' 

• Holiday resort sets ambitious sustainability programme and delivers on it
• Water-saving and leak detection, zero waste-to-landfill programmes, buying local, and more 
• Water management programme detects four major leaks and over 50 minor incidences over a short period of time

Ribby Hall Village is a family owned and run holiday resort near Blackpool, which implemented various resource-efficiency and sustainability programmes as part of its 'green agenda'.