DE-CARBONISE SMART FACTORY PROJECT

This brand-new initiative is open to small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises in the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire (D2N2) regions. The aim is to enhance manufacturing efficiency that produces cost savings whilst radically improving the environmental performance of your business.

The project is part of the DE-Carbonise programme, a six year collaboration between the University of Derby, Derby City Council and Derbyshire County Council. Funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the objective is to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) increase their sustainability and save money by reducing energy costs and improving resource efficiency that also help minimise carbon emissions.

What is the programme about?

SMEs from Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire can apply for this fully-funded business development programme aimed at enhancing manufacturing efficiency whilst radically improving the environmental performance of your business. 

The DE-Carbonise Smart Factory programme is limited to a small number of companies that are ready to incorporate operational monitoring and smart analysis, to increase the effectiveness of their business strategy and decision making. 

How does it work?

The Smart Factory project is based on a successful prototype project with Lindhurst Engineering. 

Open-source, internet of things technology is connected via smart sensors to a local server using LoRaWAN wireless that provides real time information to monitor a series of parameters, such as gas, electricity and water usage, air temperature, humidity, light levels, dust particle levels and noise. Live operational information will be captured on an accessible online dashboard that will radically improve operational decision making and give smaller companies the type of management intelligence usually associated with large, corporate companies. Full implementation support will be provided by our project partners Devtank.

Glowing network with symbols in front, including a graph and venn diagram, with blurred image of people in the background

Saving costs and the environment

The smart factory dashboard has helped Lindhurst improve the working environment, reduce running costs and reduce the carbon footprint. Managing Director, Martin Rigley said, “We’re still only at the data optimisation stage but initial findings already suggest we could save £25,000 a year.”

What does it cost to take part?

The project is fully funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), meaning there is no cost to your business. If you are selected to take part, the programme should help your organisation to save money, rather than create any additional expense.

How do I participate?

Applications are open to SMEs based in the D2N2 region that are focused on improving operational efficiencies and growing their business whilst becoming kinder to the environment. 

To be eligible businesses must:

The deadline for applications is 27th August. The programme activity will begin in September 2021. Places are limited, so early submissions are advisable.

If you have further questions email DE-Carbonise@derby.ac.uk.