With almost £2m funding from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), the project is part of Torbay Council’s commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030. Following an appraisal of the centre’s energy usage and infrastructure, a series of energy saving measures were implemented. 

One year on, the centre has saved 318 tonnes of CO₂, equivalent to 60 per cent of its annual carbon emissions; and achieved 100 per cent reduction in annual gas consumption thanks to the partnership with Torbay Council, Parkwood Leisure and energy consultancy Leisure Energy.

Central to this was the replacement of Torbay Leisure Centre’s existing gas boiler system with an air source heat pump. To reduce the running costs of the new system, secondary technologies were also installed to generate renewable electricity and improve the efficiency of other plant operations. These included solar panels, ventilation and pipework upgrades, as well as a new building energy management system. LED lighting was additionally installed, providing a further energy efficient function.

All work was completed while the leisure centre remained open and operational throughout.

“This project set out to reduce Torbay Leisure Centre’s carbon emissions by 60 per cent and it is fantastic that has been achieved within the first 12-months. With ever increasing energy costs, investments into innovative efficiency projects such as these can show what can be achieved quickly in terms of making a tangible difference to both running costs and the environment,” said Glen Hall, managing director of Parkwood Leisure.

Parkwood Leisure has worked in partnership with Torbay Council since 2004, and operates Torbay Leisure Centre and the Riviera International Centre.