At SEE Services, our expertise in facilities management is enhanced by our sustainable specialisms, including solar PV, EV charging, and ESG reporting. This month, we explore how these specialisms work together to revolutionise the way our customers manage their properties.
Q1: What are SEE Services' areas of specialism?
SEE Services look after the business world for some of the best-known brands across the UK. We understand that for our customers FM isn’t their core business, yet it is essential for their operations to run smoothly—and that’s where we come in. As property experts, we provide the support they need, enabling them to focus on what they do best.
With our extensive experience in property management, we have seen the impact that sustainable practices and technology can have on estate operations. Our wide-ranging specialisms include EV charging, solar PV and battery solutions, LED lighting, and ESG data management, among others. These solutions not only improve operational conditions but also drive cost savings and reduce environmental impact. What truly differentiates us is our strategic approach, leveraging these specialisms through our 4-step sustainability hierarchy to deliver the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for our clients.
Q2: Can you tell us more about the SEE Sustainability Hierarchy?
Sustainability can often seem overwhelming and determining where to start can be challenging. That’s why we developed our 4-step sustainability hierarchy as a practical roadmap that helps businesses reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency in a cost-effective manner.
Fabric: Addressing the structural integrity and energy efficiency of buildings.
Energy Consumption: Optimizing energy use through smart solutions and behaviour changes.
Energy Generation: Implementing renewable energy technologies such as solar PV and battery storage.
Further Decarbonization: Exploring additional measures such as EV charging and advanced sustainability initiatives.
Whether managing a single building or a multi-site estate, the principles of our hierarchy provide a scalable and strategic approach to sustainability, maximizing return on investment, reducing energy costs and carbon emissions and creating a more comfortable environment for the users of their facilities.
Q3: What are the key considerations at Step 1?
The foundation of our approach begins with the building fabric. We focus on enhancing insulation, improving windows and doors, and eliminating drafts to ensure maximum thermal efficiency. By addressing the fabric first, we minimise heat loss and reduce the demand for energy consumption, making subsequent sustainability measures even more effective.
Q4: How can customers optimise energy consumption in Step 2?
Once the building fabric is optimised, we work with clients to analyse their energy usage patterns and identify inefficiencies. We then implement tailored solutions such as LED lighting upgrades, intelligent energy management systems, and automated controls. Encouraging behavioural changes among occupants is also key to achieving sustained energy efficiency and cost savings.
Q5: What role does energy generation play in Step 3?
After reducing energy demand through Steps 1 and 2, Step 3 focuses on generating clean energy. With our expertise in solar PV and battery storage solutions, we design and install bespoke systems that allow clients to produce their own renewable energy. By right-sizing generation solutions to match the optimised energy profile, customers can reduce reliance on the grid, lower energy costs, and enhance energy resilience.
Q6: What additional decarbonisation opportunities are available in Step 4?
Beyond optimising energy consumption and generation, Step 4 takes sustainability efforts to the next level. We support clients by integrating EV charging infrastructure, exploring heat pump solutions, and utilising data analytics to continuously monitor and improve sustainability performance. These measures future-proof estates and support long-term environmental goals.
Q7: Why should businesses adopt the SEE Sustainability Hierarchy?
Embracing our structured 4-step sustainability hierarchy empowers businesses to:
· Take a phased, strategic approach that ensures optimal return on investment.
· Drive substantial reductions in energy costs and carbon footprints.
· Maintain compliance with evolving regulatory and sustainability requirements.
· Increase property value while fostering a healthier, more efficient environment for occupants.
Q8: How can businesses get started with SEE?
Getting started is easy! Via a site survey we will assess your current energy performance and sustainability goals. Our team of experts will then guide you through each step of the sustainability hierarchy, ensuring a customised plan that aligns with your business objectives.