In today’s rapidly evolving corporate landscape, sustainability has shifted from being a ‘nice to have’ to becoming a critical business strategy, aligning with the UK’s Net Zero commitments. For companies aiming to make a meaningful impact, improving energy efficiency and transitioning to low-carbon heating systems are no longer optional – they’re essential steps towards a greener future. In this blog, Clarke Controls founder Clive Bodenham explains how scalable energy management systems (EMS) can transform commercial spaces into models of sustainability.
Making Business Energy Management as Simple as at Home
“When I think about managing energy in a business, I often compare it to what we do at home,” explains Clive. “The measures we take at home – adjusting thermostats, managing lighting – can be applied in a business setting, just on a larger and more complex scale. The frustrations we face at home, like inefficient heating, are amplified when managing an entire building. But just as our cars have become smarter with sat nav and cruise control, buildings can benefit from advanced energy management systems that automate efficiency.”
How Energy Management Systems Drive Sustainability
One of the most effective steps a business can take is implementing an Energy Management System (EMS). These systems monitor and optimise energy usage, ensuring every watt is used efficiently. Clarke Controls’ EMS, for example, provides real-time data on energy consumption, enabling businesses to make precise adjustments that reduce energy waste.
“Our EMS includes tamper-proof digital temperature sensors and roller door switches,” Clive explains. “By automating energy controls, businesses free up staff to focus on more critical tasks. This boosts productivity while lowering operational costs.”
Critically, a well-designed EMS also reduces a company’s Scope 1 and 2 emissions, helping meet sustainability targets by cutting unnecessary energy consumption.
Smart Heating and Zoning for Maximum Efficiency
Energy management doesn’t stop at monitoring – it extends to how and where energy is used. Smart thermostats and zoning systems give businesses precise control over heating and cooling. By scheduling heating based on occupancy patterns and only warming occupied areas, companies reduce wastage and optimise energy usage.
“Incorporating PIR motion sensors takes this further by ensuring lights are only on when needed,” Clive adds. “One EMS can control hundreds of locations remotely. For example, when we needed to adjust the heating schedules across 200+ Wickes stores for British Summer Time, we did it remotely via the cloud – offering full control over every facility.”
Insulation and Upgrading Heating Systems
High-quality insulation is another cornerstone of sustainable workspaces. It reduces heat loss, lowers heating demand, and improves overall energy efficiency. Clarke Controls often starts projects with an energy audit to identify areas for insulation upgrades, ensuring businesses get the most from their heating systems.
Modernising heating technology is equally important. Upgrading to low-carbon systems like heat pumps or biomass boilers significantly reduces operational costs and carbon emissions.
“At Clarke Controls, we assess each building’s unique needs and local climate conditions to recommend the most suitable technology,” Clive explains. “This ensures that the transition is both practical and sustainable.”
Combining Technology with Human Behaviour
While technology is key, human behaviour also plays a vital role in energy conservation. Small practices, like closing doors to retain heat or switching off unused equipment, make a measurable difference.
“A good EMS takes this further,” Clive adds. “For example, if a door is left open for longer than the set limit, our system can automatically turn off the heating – preventing waste without relying on human intervention.”
Proven Results: Marshalls’ Energy Savings
Clive points to Clarke Controls’ partnership with Marshalls, a leading hard landscaping manufacturer, as a clear example of the impact EMS can deliver.
“After conducting a site survey and installing our EMS across their production facilities, Marshalls saved over 25% on their energy consumption, significantly reducing their carbon footprint.”
Creating Sustainable Workspaces with Clarke Controls
For businesses committed to sustainability, Clarke Controls offers the expertise and technology to create energy-efficient, low-carbon workspaces. By combining advanced systems, practical solutions, and behavioural insights, Clarke Controls helps companies achieve – and exceed – their sustainability goals.
“With our EMS, businesses can cut energy bills and consumption by up to 25%, while lowering their carbon footprint and boosting operational efficiency,” Clive concludes.
About Clarke Controls
Clarke Controls is a leading manufacturer and installer of commercial Energy Management Systems (EMS) with over two decades of experience and nationwide clients, including Wickes and Marshalls.
Clarke Controls Energy Management Systems use advanced techniques to regulate energy use without compromising comfort or productivity.
Their proprietary heating and lighting systems are ideal for a diverse range of workplaces, including industrial areas, workshops, factories, garages, and commercial environments, saving over 25% on heating and energy costs.
Contact us to find out how we can help you cut your energy costs by up to 25%!