In this episode, host Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor for the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, is joined by sustainability expert Sarah Wilkes to reflect on two years of supporting businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire in reducing their energy costs and carbon footprints.
Together, they break down the process of a free energy audit—what to expect, how it works, and how it feeds into tailored energy reports with practical, actionable recommendations. They also explore how businesses have benefited from grant funding, typically covering up to 50% of project costs, for measures such as LED lighting, solar PV, insulation, and upgraded machinery.
Topics covered:
- The most common inefficiencies spotted on-site
- What’s changed in energy usage trends post-Ukraine energy crisis
- The growing move toward electrification and off-grid solutions
- How carbon reporting is now a competitive advantage
- Tangible examples of businesses that have made long-term sustainability improvements with fast returns on investment
Podcast host: Jonathan Howl, Energy Advisor, Coventry City Council
Guest speaker: Sarah Wilkes, Energy Advisor, Coventry City Council
Podcast producer: Maria Covlea, Marketing and Events Manager, Coventry City Council
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