When Andy and partner Diana first started Like Bikes, it was primarily a mobile bike rental company, supplying bikes for use on the Limerick Greenway. But as the business grew, they realised they needed a base for operations and bought a cold, damp G-rated building in Abbeyfeale.   

Having worked with their Local Enterprise Office in the past, they got in touch to find out if there were any supports that could help make their building more energy efficient.  
 

After being accepted for the Green for Business programme, contractors visited the site to do an in-depth energy audit, examining everything from lighting to heating to building materials. 

“They were here for about half a day and after the audit they gave us a report detailing the findings,” says Andy. “We also got a list of recommendations, essentially an energy plan, along with estimated savings. That’s when we set about putting all the plans into action.” 

‘Next to no bills’ 

Since receiving the report and recommendations, Like Bikes has installed photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, insulated the building, upgraded to triple-glazed windows and swapped to energy-efficient LED lighting throughout.  

“Before fitting our PV panels, our monthly electricity bills were around €630. They’ve now dropped to an incredible €28 per month. We literally have next to no bills, and the panels are now supplying heat, hot water and lighting to the whole premises,” says Andy. 

Their commitment extends further with a bike recycling scheme and electric bikes that are now powered entirely by renewable energy. 

“For us, a green, sustainable business, this is vitally important.” 

Getting grants towards essential upgrades 

As with all Green for Business audits, Like Bikes were also informed about the grants they were eligible to apply for, including the Energy Efficiency Grant, the Business Energy Upgrade Grant grant and the Community Energy Grant. This guidance was crucial in making their ambitious retrofit project financially viable. 

Pedalling towards a greener future 

So what’s next for Like Bikes?  

“Our green journey hasn’t ended. We’re planning to buy an electric van to transport bikes from the various pick-up and drop-off locations along the Greenway. This of course, will be powered by the electricity generated from our PV solar system,” says Andy. 

“I’d completely recommend the Green for Business programme for any business with a premises. It’s not just about the audit, it’s about saving time researching grants and funding. They hold your hand along the way and simplify it all.” 

Become more sustainable  

For any business, embracing sustainability is no longer just an option but a growing necessity and a powerful competitive advantage. By adopting greener practices, businesses can significantly reduce costs, access funding, and future-proof their business. 

If you want to learn more about the Green for Business programme, or any of the other sustainability supports, get in touch with the National Enterprise Hub team today on (01) 727 2100. We’re here to help.