Top tips for golf clubs to save money
Golf clubs are facing significantly increasing costs, particularly for energy.
Given these challenges, golfing bodies have collaborated to pool resources with a view to supporting clubs. The following is a guide that features examples of where clubs could look to save money and reduce costs.
Alongside the recommendations, we’ve provided links to previous Continue to Learn seminars and features that will help you address some of the conversations your club manager or committees will want to have with you in the near future as they look to save money around the clubhouse.
It may be intimidating to discuss ways in which you can save money and you may have to think creatively when it comes to cutting costs around the course. But by being proactive and putting a plan in place, you can present yourself as a leader in the business and a valued professional.
This guide was compiled on behalf of BIGGA, England Golf, GCMA, Golf Foundation, Golf Ireland, Wales Golf, PGA, The R&A and Scottish Golf. With thanks to ATPI and GEO Foundation.
Part 1: Making it happen
1/ Hold a team meeting with lead staff and heads of departments to agree ways to use energy most efficiently within the clubhouse and maintenance facility. Areas that could be addressed include lighting, heating and appliances on stand-by.
Useful links:
2/ Check hot water thermostats and seek to reduce water temperatures wherever possible - kitchens, showers etc.
3/ Walk the course and explore ways to reduce mowing and associated fuel costs. Try and identify areas that are out of common play, however small, and apply the approach across the entire site.
Useful links:
![shutterstock_1262328052 [Irrigation].jpg](https://www.bigga.org.uk/static/b0f55c6d-db95-491f-b018f6012ae2a243/100x79_highestperformance__4a7c7e45a350/shutterstock1262328052-Irrigation.jpg)
4/ Ask the course manager to outline a draft plan for efficient irrigation throughout the year, with specific focus on reducing running time and associated pumping costs.
Useful links:
5/ Cut out any non-essential use of strimmers, leaf blowers and other energy intensive equipment.
Useful links:
Part 2: Low-cost solutions
1/ Implement a 'light bulb plan' – each time a bulb goes, consider replacing it with an LED bulb as this will save both money and carbon.
2/ Get an energy smart meter. Energy suppliers are obligated to rolling these out to households and small businesses, free of charge. Smart meter technology can assist businesses by:
- saving money on energy bills
- identifying energy waste
- increasing operational efficiency
- increasing awareness of energy use among users
- increasing ability to manage and monitor energy use
- becoming more environmentally friendly
3/ Get your boiler serviced and adjust its flow and temperature settings so it is working in the most efficient way possible.
4/ Ensure the clubhouse and all buildings are well-insulated. By insulating your roof space, as well as cavity walls, you will reduce heat transfer, saving energy.
5/ Draught proof where you can.
- Windows - use draught-proofing strips around the frame, brush strips work better for sash windows
- Doors - use draught-proofing strips around the edges and brush the hinged-flap draught excluders at the bottom
- Chimney and fireplace - if you don't use your fireplace, use an inflatable pillow to block the chimney or fit a cap over the chimney pot
- Floorboard and skirting - floorboards need to move, so use a flexible silicone-based filler to fill the gaps
- Loft hatches - use draught-proofing foam strips to keep heat in
Part 3: Bigger projects and income generation
1/ Wind turbines and solar panels could reduce your reliance on 'grid energy'. This will also lower your carbon footprint.
![shutterstock_1478640821 [Motion Light].jpg](https://www.bigga.org.uk/static/416955c2-24a2-464d-a18bffbaecd36334/100x72_highestperformance__4a7c7e45a350/shutterstock1478640821-Motion-Light.jpg)
2/ Install motion detectors to lights and upgrade outside lights to solar power. This will ensure that lights are only used when necessary and empty rooms are not being lit.
3/ Consider installing electric vehicle charging points; some providers offer free installation.
4/ Consider installing solar panels. There are many providers, such as the Golf Management Group, who will advise on the suitability and nature of these for your site.
5/ Consider opening the clubhouse to non-members to drive more income.
TIP: The BIGGA website features a library of resources including thousands of hours of Continue to Learn education available for BIGGA members to download and watch for free.
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