Journey to Net Zero Emissions Update: Fine Grain Property On Track

As we mark the second anniversary of Fine Grain Property's commitment to achieving a carbon-neutral future, it's a fitting moment to reflect on our progress and ongoing efforts. Our ambitious goal, endorsed by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), is to reduce our carbon emissions by at least 50% from our 2020 levels by 2030. As the Sustainability Lead at Fine Grain, I am pleased to share insights into our journey towards sustainability.

Strategic Investments in Decarbonisation

Over the past two years, we have invested more than €1 million in initiatives aimed at decarbonizing our portfolio. This significant financial commitment highlights our dedication to fostering sustainable practices within the social and business communities where we operate.

Achievements in Carbon Emission Reduction

Our efforts have yielded substantial results. We have achieved an annual reduction of 50 tonnes in carbon emissions, equating to a €43,000 saving in energy costs based on 2023 prices. This reduction is comparable to the carbon absorption capacity of nearly 2,400 mature oak trees annually. These early successes represent only the initial phase of our long-term sustainability strategy.

The Steps to Energy Efficiency

The initial phase of our sustainability strategy was to capitalise on the straightforward energy efficiency opportunities such as transitioning to LED lighting and upgrading our Building Management Systems. More complex solutions have involved the adoption of high-efficiency equipment, including variable speed motors for air conditioning systems, underscoring our move towards more technologically advanced, albeit capital-intensive, solutions.

To ensure optimal capital investments, we conduct thorough pre-investment energy assessments for each property. For larger sites, we employ advanced software to simulate energy demands and test various technologies, considering multiple environmental variables like sunlight, wind, and air temperature…etc to find the most effective solutions for decarbonisation.

Innovative Heating and Cooling Solutions

By the end of 2024, we aim to have implemented highly efficient heating and cooling systems in two of our buildings at the Westpark Innovation Campus, Shannon. These systems will feature desuperheater technology, enabling the capture and utilization of waste heat for “free” hot water production in the warmer months, and is anticipated to yield an additional annual carbon savings of 46 tonnes, the equivalent of the CO₂ absorbed by a further 2,190 mature oak trees every year.^[2]

Preparing for Future Technologies—Heat Pumps

The transition from gas boilers to heat pumps is a pivotal component of our decarbonisation strategy. Although costly and disruptive, this shift is essential for reducing our dependency on fossil fuels. By minimising heat loads and utilizing innovative technologies like desuperheater systems, we are laying the groundwork for a smoother transition to heat pump technology, which could reduce carbon emissions by 110 tonnes annually in a typical 100,000 sq.ft. building.

Enhancing Client Comfort and Efficiency

Our new air-conditioning installations utilize Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology to enhance comfort and energy efficiency. This system optimises temperature control by redistributing waste heat within the building, resulting in up to a 30% reduction in energy input and a corresponding decrease in carbon emissions. In simple terms, the new systems transfer otherwise wasted heat taken from one area of the building which is cooling and use it in an area where heating is required (and vice versa).

Contributing to Biodiversity and Community Engagement

Our commitment extends beyond emissions reduction. We actively participate in initiatives like Ireland's National Tree Week, enhancing local biodiversity and community engagement. Our installations of EV charging stations, e-bike facilities, and support for local activities like St. Senan’s Rugby Club in Shannon further illustrate our commitment to community and environmental stewardship.

As we continue on this transformative journey, we remain excited about the future and committed to sharing our progress. We are just beginning to tap into the potential of sustainable practices that benefit our clients, investors, and the wider community.

^[1] Based on a mature oak absorbing 21kg of CO₂ a year. Source: https://www.viessmann.co.uk/en/heating-advice/boilers/how-much-co2-does-tree-absorb.html#:~:text=A%20typical%20tree%20can%20absorb,around%20a%20tonne%20of%20CO2

^[2] Based on a mature oak absorbing 21kg of CO₂ a year. Source: https://www.viessmann.co.uk/en/heating-advice/boilers/how-much-co2-does-tree-absorb.html#:~:text=A%20typical%20tree%20can%20absorb,around%20a%20tonne%20of%20CO2

^[3] Based on a mature oak absorbing 21kg of CO₂ a year. Source: https://www.viessmann.co.uk/en/heating-advice/boilers/how-much-co2-does-tree-absorb.html#:~:text=A%20typical%20tree%20can%20absorb,around%20a%20tonne%20of%20CO2