FRIAR GATE STUDIOS' NEW COST CUTTING TECHNOLOGY HELPS CUT CARBON EMISSIONS
Friar Gate Studios, the centre for the creative industries in the city, have announced plans to install and innovative renewable energy technology that will reduce their utilities expenditure, as well as their carbon emissions.
Derby City Council, which owns and manages the Studios, on Ford Street in Derby, is set to invest in the installation of a Photovoltaic (PV) electricity generation system, a form of renewable technology that produces AC electricity from solar irradiation without any carbon emissions.
The roof mounted PV system will be attached to the existing roof structure by a bespoke lightweight frame. This produces power in direct current (DC) form by converting the sun's solar energy directly into electricity.
The electrical capacity of the system will be 26.5kW peak - this can either be used on site (displacing utility supply and cost) or exported to the grid for revenue income. Electricity generated by the PV system and consumed on site has a value of more than 2.5 times greater than that not consumed on site and exported to the grid.
This is a 25-year 'spend to save' project is designed to deliver long term financial returns whilst also providing a reduction in council carbon emissions. Derby City Council is installing a similar system at Springwood Leisure Centre in Oakwood.
Commenting on the investment, Ann Bhatti, centre manager at Friar Gate Studios said:
"This type of technology is a fantastic long-term investment for Friar Gate Studios and will provide enormous cost benefits in the future.
"In addition, it will allow us to become more self sufficient and will dramatically reduce our carbon emissions, in line with the UK's carbon emissions targets."
Friar Gate Studios were launched in Spring 2007 in response to the continued growth of the creative industries in the city and surrounding areas.
The Studios comprise of 40 offices, ranging in size from 275 ft2 to 1,190 ft2 and offer stylish, modern office facilities for businesses in the arts, design, media and other creative industries.
Tenants have access to broadband, on-site management and reception services, meeting rooms, IT support and visitor parking. They also benefit from a range of other facilities, including virtual office and hot desking, conference facilities, video conferencing, event and networking opportunities.
For further information visit www.friargatestudios.co.uk contact Ann Bhatti on 10332 258300 or email friargatestudios@derby.gov.uk.