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A Bright Start to the Season

In August 2017 Fifers For The Community (FFTC) assumed responsibility for the maintenance and management of the 3G pitch and introduction of community use at Bayview. Our first winter immediately highlighted that use of the floodlights increased ten-fold and after the lease was the major overhead cost for the Charity. The heavy electricity bills combined with the cost and limited availability of replacement bulbs was a major issue which FFTC and East Fife Football Club (EFFC) decided to address.

Six months ago both parties started to examine the options available and opened discussions with Zero Waste Scotland (ZWS).  ZWS launched the project by carrying out an energy assessment to establish the benefit of installing LED floodlights at Bayview. The potential cost reduction was significant so with the support of ZWS the project was put out to competitive tender and a preferred supplier selected.

From there we started the process of identifying possible sources of funding and we were delighted to secure a heavily discounted, long term and low interest loan from the Energy Saving Trust. This alone left us with a difficult decision considering the past and future financial constraints caused by COVID-19.

It was at this stage that a white knight arrived. EFFC and FFTC have previously received enormous support from the Scottish Football Partnership (SFP) and once again they supported all groups involved at Bayview. Following an application by EFFC the SFP awarded a significant grant which turned this into a financially viable project.

Installation of the new LED floodlighting will begin on 22nd August of this year and will exceed SFA Bronze Level standard.  Repayment of the loan will be made by FFTC from savings made on electricity usage during community use ensuring there is no financial burden to EFFC. The floodlights will become part of the fabric of Bayview Stadium and as such EFFC will be responsible for maintenance of the system which carries a lengthy warranty.

This has been a tremendous combined effort between FFTC and EFFC who would like to thank Zero Waste Scotland, the Energy Saving Trust and the Scottish Football Partnership for their support throughout.