Bosses at a leading theme park are set to save thousands of pounds in energy costs – thanks to an Elland-based firm.

Lightwater Valley called in energy management consultancy Orchard Energy to find as many ways as possible to reduce its carbon footprint and cut its energy consumption.

The project has led to a comprehensive audit of energy use at the North Yorkshire theme park and has already identified efficiencies that will result in more than £50,000 worth of savings each year.

Further savings and reduced carbon footprint have also been achieved from sourcing up to 45% of its electricity from a large solar photovoltaic array on fields adjacent to the theme park.

Simon Pyne, business development manager of Orchard Energy, said: “As well as exploring investment in energy efficient technologies and renewables, Lightwater Valley was keen to improve environmental awareness amongst its staff and create a real culture of efficiency that runs throughout the business.

“We believe employees best know their workplaces and often just need the relevant tools to be able to come up with new ideas to reduce environmental impact.”

Mr Pyne said studies had shown that up to 30% energy reduction could be achieved through staff engagement.

He said: “Our audit identified site areas where heating and lighting consumption could be significantly reduced, prompting a recommendation for sub-metering and new employee procedures.

“The employee engagement initiative aims to halve out of hours energy usage and we have been impressed by the way staff have taken ownership of the project, bringing their own ideas to the table and communicating them to colleagues in an effort to drive down consumption.”

Peter Johnson-Treherne, group finance director of Heritage Great Britain, which owns the theme park, said: “We’re really encouraged by the savings already identified.

“The next step is to expand this energy efficiency initiative and cut our carbon footprint even further.

“This will include the introduction of biomass boilers, smart lighting and ongoing staff training.”

Energy consultancy Orchard Energy has its headquarters in Elland and further offices in Newcastle, Bristol, Northampton and Glasgow.