Parlour Furniture maker cuts energy bills with Net Zero help
Garry Smith, who spends hours crafting tables, chairs, and cabinets at Parlour Furniture in Elton, near Stockton, was finding it difficult to heat his base at Smith House Farm, just off the A66.
The 250-year-old barn’s diesel blow-heater only managed to heat the void in the ceiling, leaving Mr Smith cold while working.
However, the Combined Authority’s Net Zero Programme provided the sole trader with one-to-one consultations, and a £2,000 grant to help improve his energy efficiency and keep warm while working.
Gary Smith has managed to cut his energy bills (Image: TVCA)
The grant was used to pay for new LED lighting and infra-red heaters.
He said: “I’ve zoned each area so each has its own lighting and spots with 1.3kW infra-red heaters heating objects, not the air.
“The bench and floor heat up and I get warm.
“I spent the £2,000 from Net Zero, plus another £2,000 myself to do it.
“It really helps as you need your fingers when you’re making fine products.
“It’s been great – it’s a lot of money really.
“I’m a Yorkshireman so I made it go quite a way.
“It made a big difference, especially at this time of year when it’s 0C.”
The Net Zero Programme also helped him to create a carbon reduction plan, which allowed him to reduce costs and make Parlour more energy efficient.
The improvements have helped Mr Smith save £622 a year in energy costs.
He said: “I learned from it.
“I spoke to the technical advisors, which was interesting, and they pointed me in the right direction on type of heating and what would make a difference.
“They held your hand a bit – which was good.
“It was quite a straightforward process really.Garry Smith has been helped by Net Zero (Image: TVCA)
“Investing in energy-efficient upgrades, like high-quality LED lights and efficient heating systems, can really pay off fast with cost savings and lower carbon emissions.
“It’s important to go for quality products to steer clear of maintenance headaches down the line.”
Mr Smith studied cabinet making and wood machining at London Guildhall University before going to study furniture design and fine craftsmanship.
In 2006, he set up on his own, creating Parlour and building a steady living.
He said: “I used to be a timetable manager for a university and hated it.
“I didn’t get much satisfaction from it.
“With this, I did a couple of properties, and it satisfied me.
“I enjoy it – it’s what I do.
“It is rewarding because I can go to someone’s house, they tell me what they want and end up with a product which, hopefully, they’re happy with.”
Mr Smith said he is already mindful of the environmental impacts of his business – with Parlour finishing all its accessories and furniture in non-solvent products, oil, wax and water-based paints and lacquers to avoid the harmful effects of solvent-based finishes.
He added: “Other businesses should sign up because it offers invaluable guidance to help grow your business while becoming more efficient and productive.
“The tailored consultations and decarbonisation strategies not only enhance operational efficiency, but also position your business to thrive in a sustainable future.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Getting meaningful support to businesses large and small across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool is absolutely crucial if we want to make the most of the progress we’re making.
“It’s great to hear our support has played a small role in helping a skilled craftsman like Garry ply his trade.
“It’s our job to work to make it as easy and worthwhile as possible for businesses and those running them get hold of funding and support – particularly if it boosts efficiency and saves on their costs.
“If you’re a sole trader, or running a small business, I’d strongly urge you to get in touch and see what we can do for you.”
When it comes to the future, Mr Smith is now looking to improve his kitchen area on the back of the programme’s support.