HOME electronic store, Dacombes of Wimborne, has been awarded for its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint.

The independent home electronics store was recognised not once, but three times at the ERT industry awards which celebrates the very best from across the UK’s electrical retail sector.

The family-run business won the Best Sustainable Independent Electrical Retailer award for its work to transfer to solar energy to power the hundreds of domestic appliances at the store.

Dacombes installed 99 solar panels on the roof of its showroom on Leigh Road thanks to a grant from Low Carbon Dorset, which means the business is energy self sufficient during working hours.

The company has also invested in two electrical vehicle van chargers, a tesla battery and uses a heat pump for all heating and cooling along with energy efficient lighting and equipment.

Managing director of Dacombes, Matt Renaut, said: “Our green energy investment is hugely important. I’m thrilled that our business is the first to win this new award category.

Solar panel installation at the Dacombes of Wimborne showroom Picture: ERT Awards/Will Ireland

“To be recognised for our sustainable ethos means a great deal and I hope other businesses in our industry will follow our lead.”

He added: “The night just kept getting even better when we scooped the coveted Turning Point Award which recognises a retailer that has gone the extra mile to adapt their business or stepped out of their comfort zone to try something new – we’ve certainly done that!

“And we crowned the night with a Highly Commended in the Best Small Independent Consumer Electronics Retailer category.”

Jack Cheesman, editor of ERT magazine, who host the awards said: “It’s never been more important to focus on the positives of the industry amid some very challenging times.

“The judges chose Dacombes of Wimborne for three prestigious awards as it is making clear strides towards a more efficient and dynamic future, while still maintaining its local and friendly expert service.”

He added: “Independent retailers have the clear advantage of their community loyalty and the personal one-to-one service they can offer; they also have the benefit of being more agile than their larger counterparts, and this flexibility is a vital strength in a constantly evolving market.”