Sustainable Biz - Magazine - Page 26
Accelerating Retrofit
for Business Growth
By Helen Burridge, Hertfordshire Climate Change and
Sustainability Partnership (HCCSP) Manager
F
or many small businesses, 'greening'
operations still conjures up images of
recycling bins and vegetarian catering.
But with rising energy prices, increasing
public expectations around sustainability, and
building costs representing a significant chunk
of overheads, there’s a strong commercial case
for upgrading your premises. Retrofitting –
improving the energy performance of buildings
– isn’t just for homeowners. It’s a smart move
for business, too.
The Business Case for Retrofit
From independent shops and salons to
offices and workshops, businesses across
Hertfordshire could benefit from retrofitting
– especially those in older buildings.
Upgrades can range from simple steps like
better insulation and LED lighting to more
substantial changes like installing solar panels
or switching to low-carbon heating systems.
Benefits include:
•
Lower energy bills
•
More comfortable and efficient premises
•
Improved green credentials for clients
and staff
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Although many available guides focus on
homes, the measures apply just as well
to small business premises – particularly
those in similar property types. That’s why
Hertfordshire councils have produced easyto-follow resources showing what upgrades
are possible, their costs, and expected savings
alongside a more comprehensive project to
mobilise action across the whole construction
system.
A Joined-Up Local Effort
Until recently, Hertfordshire’s retrofit efforts
were happening in silos – with planners,
asset managers, training, housing and
sustainability teams all working separately.
Through the Local Area Retrofit Accelerator
(LARA) project, Hertfordshire councils and
Hertfordshire Futures have come together with
wider stakeholders to develop a shared strategy.
This collaboration is unlocking funding,
strengthening the supply chain, and making
retrofit simpler for residents and businesses.
LARA isn’t just about insulation and heat
pumps. It’s about building a supportive
ecosystem – with better information, training
opportunities, and access to finance – so more
people can take action.
S U S TA I N A B L E B I Z M A G A Z I N E
MAY 2025
Retrofitting offers businesses
the chance to cut costs,
improve comfort, and show
leadership in sustainability
– while also strengthening
Hertfordshire’s green
economy.
What Can Businesses Do?
Whether you own your premises or rent a unit
in a shared building, there are steps you can
take:
•
•
•
Check your building’s energy
performance (via your EPC or an
energy survey)
Talk to your landlord – they may
benefit from improvements, too
Subscribe to the Hertfordshire
Growth Hub to stay up to date on
funding and support
