Harris Federation

The Harris Federation is an education charity led and run by teachers. It opened its first school in 1991 and now runs 54 primary and secondary academies in London and Essex.

Harris Academies are widely recognised as a force for social mobility and have, over the past thirty years, implemented ideas and initiatives that have transformed the opportunities of pupils from working class and disadvantaged backgrounds.

Why

A number of factors led to the decision to replace all mercury lighting with LED. Whilst it was an important pillar of their Net Zero strategy, failures of fluorescent bulbs were becoming problematic with issues on light quality, maintenance and replacements. In reaction to significant increases in energy cost the estates team accelerated implementation timescales.

Why Energys

Energys won the contract for 11 academies on a competitive open market tender.
The combination of price, technology solution and the long-term reduction in carbon and energy cost deliverable via our IntelliDim lighting were important factors.
Our reputation, environmental credentials, and expertise specific to school retrofits were also of significant importance to the Harris team.

Helen Smith, Head of Estates and Projects commented:

“Energys undertook a lighting replacement programme for 11 Academies. Their work has been professional and diligent at all times and on occasion, the Team has gone over and above their duties to accommodate and assist our schools. The project was good value for money and has yielded considerable savings on completion”.

Challenges

As is often the case the Harris team wanted to avoid disruption and requested all works to be completed out of hours with aim of finalising installation in all 11 Schools between early September and end of October half term 2024

Solutions

The decision makers were keen to maximise the benefits achievable through the retrofit programme and having completed due diligence decided on a campus-wide installation including IntelliDim LED panels, LED downlights & wall lights, IP65 rated fittings, and other products from Energys’ range.

IntelliDim was of particular interest as its dynamic sensors monitor light conditions and ensure only what is required per the specified room by room needs delivers greater efficiencies and higher savings long-term. It will also save the buildings management team countless hours currently spent on maintenance and switching off lights when not needed.

“We are very happy with the service received and we would not hesitate to recommend Energys in the future”