News

New data showing vast winter energy savings from closing the store door

www.closethedoor.org.uk
23rd November 2010

Close the Door Campaign: New research proves closing a shop door in winter saves up to 50% in energy usage and carbon emissions

New research from Cambridge University proves exactly how much energy is wasted by shops leaving their doors open with the heating on.

The research found that closing a shop door when heating is being used:

• Reduces energy usage by up to 50%
• Cuts a shop’s annual CO₂emissions by up to 10 tonnes of CO₂, equivalent to 3 return London to Hong Kong flights
• Assists with mandatory national 34% reduction in carbon emissions
• Enhances comfort of staff and customers, maintaining temperature at Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) recommended levels all day, even when outside temperature plummets
• Maintains energy use at a consistent low level
• Enables heating to be shut off long before the end of the day without affecting internal temperatures
• Stops need for so-called “air curtains” over the door – among the greatest wasters of energy: a single one consumes 24 kWh per day. This is equivalent to emitting 91 kg CO₂per week, or more emissions than a return Glasgow to London coach trip

Jeannie Dawkins, Director, Close the Door Campaign, commented, “Here is the proof that it’s time for retailers to acknowledge the massive contribution they are making to energy waste and carbon emissions if they heat the street. By simply closing the shop door, CO₂ emissions dramatically decrease, energy bills are reduced, and customers and staff are made more comfortable. It’s a no-brainer.”

About the study

The independent research, commissioned by Close the Door, was carried out by Murat Basarir of the Glass & Façade Technology Research Group of the Engineering Department at Cambridge University, over winter 2009/2010. See the full study at www.closethedoor.org.uk under Scientific evidence.

About the Close the Door campaign

The campaign originated in Cambridge and is now nationwide. In Cambridge initially 8 shops agreed to close their doors against energy waste; this number has now risen to over 300 of all types and sizes. The campaign enjoys broad cross-party endorsement and has many high profile supporters.

Contact:
Close the Door
Rachel Lankester 020 7096 1850
[email protected]

Julian Huppert MP supports CtD at the Nov 6th Stop Climate Chaos event in Cambridge.

This campaign has identified a staggeringly simple and painless way to make a noticeable dent in our emissions. It’s a no-brainer for anyone who cares at all about the environment or their fellow man. The Cambridge University research project and the number of shops of all sizes already closing their doors, show that this can work for everyone. I fully endorse Close the Door.”

Mike Berners-Lee (Small World)

For more ideas read his book 'How Bad Are Bananas? The Carbon Footprint of everything'

I am delighted to support the Close The Door Campaign. Closing shop doors will not only reduce energy consumption and save money but should act as the catalyst to bring about more widespread behavioural change in the retail industry. 
Hopefully this initiative will galvanise retailers to go even further and become even more energy efficient - I will look forward to high street shops using more LED lights in their showrooms and turning their thermostats down. There are lots of practical ways to make a difference that cost little but achieve much. 

The Close The Door Campaign symbolises a more accessible, common-sense approach towards reducing our energy consumption across the commercial sector. It should be encouraged by both retailers and consumers alike.

Mike Tuffrey AM