Burgess Department Store has embarked on an extensive refurbishment programme that will see all 707 light fittings in the store replaced with new energy efficient light fittings, bulbs and controls.
The €65,000 investment will see all 12,000 square feet of the store lit by new fittings and bulbs that consume approximately 250 per cent less electricity than the traditional bulbs being replaced.
Rosie Boles, managing director at Burgess Department store, said: “This is a very significant investment for us in the future of Athlone’s much loved department store and the Burgess brand. The store is lit up at least 8.5 hours a day so it makes sense to invest in a sustainable and economical lighting scheme. As one of the midland’s iconic brands we are committed to investing in a bright future for our business and community.
“We are delighted with the results so far. The new quality of light is excellent – bright and clean, as well as being much better for the environment.”
Ms Boles expects that the investment will dramatically reduce the store’s energy consumption.
“We anticipate that our energy bill will be cut by about 50 per cent,” she said, “which will allow us to invest in other store enhancements to make the Burgess shopping experience even more pleasurable for our customers. We expect the outlay to pay for itself within three to four years.”
Burgess is being grant aided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI ) as part of its Smart Lighting Pilot Scheme for small and medium enterprises.
The lighting efficiency project is being managed by the award-winning Ennis based company EASi. EASi is the longest established lighting efficiency company in Ireland and Burgess has found their help and guidance to be invaluable.
“EASi designed the new lighting layout, advised on the best fittings available as well as managing the project and grant application for us,” Ms Boles said. “We would like to thank our customers in advance for their patience and support during this refurbishment programme. We have worked hard with SEAI and EASi to minimise any inconvenience to our customers while the work is underway.”
The new lighting scheme fit out will be completed within three weeks.
