Business case on RECP assessment in Armavir Green Club member "SUN CHEERS"
“Sun Cheers” was founded in 2018 as a small family hobby that gradually grew into a stable and thriving business, employing numerous gardeners and staff. The business began with fruits from its own garden, and today, the company produces over 14 different products, including dried fruit sweets and chocolate-covered dried fruits. Its market spans various regions of Armenia, including Yerevan, as well as abroad. Motivated to address production costs and improve product quality, the company participated in the RECP Green Clubs project under EU4Environment (2019-2024). This publication details the company’s experience reported after the assessment exercise conducted in 2024.
The RECP assessment examined the production site and identified several RECP options, out of which the following four were prioritized by the company:
RECP option 1: Producing by-products from apricot waste (kernel and pulp): The company already produces spirits such as vodka from the generated fruit waste, effectively managing waste and bringing economic benefits. The RECP experts also recommended producing kernel pulp oil, fuel briquettes, and compost as further methods to improve waste management.
RECP option 2: Using wastewater for irrigation: Based on the specific production processes, approximately 30% of the total water consumption could be reused for irrigation purposes.
RECP option 3: Installing photovoltaic (PV) solar panels: A PV system with a capacity of 42 kWp (expected to generate over 63 MWh annually) is sufficient to meet the company’s needs, including the demand for the modified drying device and the charging of electric vehicles.
RECP option 4: Technology change and equipment modification: Upgrades such as purchasing electric vehicles and modifying the drying device are recommended, as well as options to optimize the convection of warm air and the elimination of humidity.
