Leading engineering company build for the future with a Centreco solar energy system

Image: Centreco Installation for Machine Building Systems (48kW Solar Energy System)

  • Centreco delivers an industry-leading solar energy system to Machine Building Systems, a Derbyshire-based supplier of modular aluminium systems.
  • On-site electricity generation is now in place through a 48kW capacity system at their Derbyshire
  • Bespoke designed system comprising 113 Tier One Solar Panels.
  • Equivalent electricity generated from the system at only 4.7p per kW Hour for the long-term.
  • Green energy generated resulting in CO2 savings of 233 tonnes forecast over the next 25 years

Leading UK installers of commercial Solar Energy Systems, Centreco (UK) Limited, are pleased to announce the completion of a 48kW installation for Derbyshire-based supplier of modular aluminium profile systems, Machine Building Systems. The solar energy system, consisting of 113 roof-mounted tier-one panels, will allow the Company to generate its own green electricity allowing MBS to save 233 tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 25 years.

Using the latest modelling techniques alongside site surveys, Centreco were able to design and install a bespoke solar energy system matching MBS’ energy demand, ensuring the best long-term commercial returns for the business whilst maximising the benefit from the otherwise redundant roof space.

Established in 1989 and based in Derbyshire, MBS’s reputation has been built on quick delivery times, massive stockholding, and excellent build and product quality. Their wide array of expertise in the engineering industry makes MBS the natural choice for machine builders and end users alike.

As part of a growing industry within the UK, MBS have been exploring new technology and materials in order to lead their market through competitiveness and innovation, they have explored advanced high wood content-based systems and new digital design techniques.

This drive for progress led MBS to look for solutions to address their energy costs and sustainability goals. They turned to Centreco, as a renewable energy business with a shared forward-thinking approach, to design, develop and install a tier one solar energy system as part of the Company’s energy transition strategy.

MBS like others within the precision engineering industry, have been affected by the recent instability within the energy supply sector and suffered the impact of rising electricity prices. With the addition of a Centreco solar energy system, MBS is now able to benefit from fixed electricity costs of just 4.7p per kWh projected over the next 25 years. This offers a substantial saving against grid-supplied electricity and fundamentally reduces a significant business overhead.

The installation protects MBS from long-term inflationary pressures on energy procurement whilst addressing supply chain environmental integrity and as such plays an important part in the Company remaining highly competitive in their engineering sector.

Stuart MitchellManaging Director of Machine Building Systems, commented on the installation by saying “We’re very happy with our 48kW solar installation and the way Centreco conducted the whole process, from concept to completion.  I felt that we were dealing with a highly competent company, who knew what they were doing, right from their initial approach to us. It is quite gratifying to see the main meter stop dead on a sunny summer day!”

Alan Cuthbert, Project Development Manager at Centreco also commented,

“MBS are typical of many of the clients we are working with in the engineering market, in that they are facing ever-increasing energy prices and environmental demands. A Centreco Solar Energy System is the perfect for an engineering business as not only does it reduce their electricity prices significantly, but it also boosts their green credentials. The cost savings delivered by this system are immediate and it provides peace of mind that the business is protected against any future energy price hikes.

We thoroughly enjoyed working with a dynamic business such as MBS on this project and wish them all the best in making the most of their self-generated renewable energy for many years to come.”

 21st August 2023

Unifabs secure their energy future with a Centreco Solar Energy System

Image: Centreco Installation for Unifabs Ltd in Nuneaton (373kW solar energy system)

  • Centreco delivers an industry-leading solar energy system for Unifabs Ltd, a supplier of sheet metal fabrications and parts.
  • On-site electricity generation is now in place through a 373kW capacity system at Nuneaton
  • Bespoke system comprising 995 Tier One Solar Panels.
  • Equivalent electricity price generated from the system at only 5.0p per kW Hour for the long-term.

Leading UK installers of commercial Solar Energy Systems, Centreco (UK) Limited, are pleased to announce the completion of a 373kW installation for a renowned supplier of sheet metal fabrication and parts, Unifabs, at their premises in Nuneaton. The solar energy system, consisting of 995 roof-mounted tier-one panels, will allow the company to generate its own green electricity, with electricity prices cut to just 5.0p per kW Hour for the next 25 years.

Established in 2007, the installation of solar power represents an important step in Unifabs’ journey towards more sustainable growth. The system offers a substantial saving against grid-supplied electricity rates and reduces a core business overhead which protects against long-term inflationary pressures on energy costs.

Offering extensive sheet metal fabrication capabilities, including CNC punching, laser cutting, CNC metal bending & forming, metal fabrication, welding, powder coating, and assembly, Unifab’s ability to maintain a versatile product base is a core driver in the success of their business.

Centreco used its wealth of experience and in-house resources alongside the latest modelling techniques to design and install a bespoke solar energy system matching Unifab’s energy demand. This ensures the best long-term commercial returns for the business from otherwise redundant roof space. Unifabs have an extensive environmental and sustainability policy across the company. This Centreco solar energy system complements their focus on working towards a more sustainable future for the company as they seek to further bolster their green credentials. Unifabs hope this installation will demonstrate to other businesses the positive impacts of installing a solar energy system as the country works towards a binding net-zero target by 2050.

The solar energy system, will allow the Company to generate their own green electricity, with the system projected to save over 1663 Tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 25 years.

Managing Director of Unifabs, Tom James said “It is important to us to use as much green energy as possible, and this installation is a great way for us to do that. We hope that this change in sustainability practices sets an example for other businesses looking for cost-effective solutions that benefit both the environment, and their business operations.”

Chris Ruddock, Project Development Manager at Centreco commented, “From the initial stages of this project it was clear that the team at Unifabs clearly understood not just the economic, but also the environmental benefits of installing a solar energy system.

This system not only significantly reduces their electricity supply prices via the grid, but it also demonstrates Unifabs’ environmental and sustainability agenda. We have thoroughly enjoyed working on this project and we wish the whole team at Unifabs a bright future producing green, renewable energy.”

 9th August 2023

 

 

Wine wholesaler toasts carbon neutrality with the addition of a Centreco solar energy system.

Image: Centreco Installation for EWGA Wines (30Kw Solar Energy System)
 
  • Centreco deliver an industry-leading solar energy system to EWGA, a Lancashire-based wine wholesaler
  • On site electricity generation is now in place through a 30kW capacity system at Carnforth Premises
  • Bespoke designed system comprising of 66 Tier One Solar Panels
  • COemissions savings of over 145 Tonnesacross the next 25 years
  • Equivalent electricity generated from the system at only 5p per kW Hour for the long-term

Leading UK installers of commercial Solar Energy Systems, Centreco (UK) Limited, are pleased to announce the completion of a 30kW installation for Lancashire-based wine wholesaler, EWGA Wines at their premises in Carnforth. The solar energy system, consisting of 66 roof mounted tier-one panels, will allow the Company to generate their own green electricity, with the system projected to save over 145 Tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 25 years.

Using the latest modelling techniques alongside site surveys, Centreco were able to design and install a bespoke solar energy system matching that of EWGA’s energy demand, thereby ensuring the best long-term commercial returns for the business by efficiently using available roof space.

Established in 1972, EWGA was founded by Pamela and Gerald Moeckell. The couple look to balance their traditional business with a modern outlook on sustainability and environmental issues. The company set out a bold target of becoming completely Carbon-Neutral in 2023. Now, with the addition of this Centreco solar energy system, EWGA has progressed to this target and is also able to benefit from fixed electricity costs of just 5p per kWh projected over the next 25 years. This offers a substantial saving against grid-supplied electricity and fundamentally reduces a core business overhead protecting EWGA from long-term inflammatory pressures, and ensuring they can remain competitive in their wine wholesaling market.

Adrian MoeckellOwner of EWGA, oversaw the solar energy project on behalf of the company. When asked about the addition of the system he said “Our purpose for the installation was to develop a Carbon-Neutral warehousing and office operation. The addition of this Centreco system has meant that we have been able to achieve this target. Myself and everyone else here at EWGA is extremely proud of this massive environmental achievement and I’d like to thank the team at Centreco for playing a huge part in allowing it to happen.”

John Williamson, senior energy consultant at Centreco also commented, “The team at EWGA recognised the opportunity to achieve their sustainability targets and deliver long-term cost savings to their business with the installation of a Centreco Solar Energy System. EWGA are members of the Harpers Sustainability Charter which encourages its signatories across the drinks trade to share, support, and promote best practices through transparency on all aspects of their sustainable journeys. The Centreco installation is complementary to the goals of the Charter, we were proud to help EWGA achieve their environmental targets and to be held up as a leading example of a progressive wine wholesaling operation. Centreco thoroughly enjoyed working with EWGA throughout the project and we would like to wish them well in their bright future as a high quality environmentally aware business.”

 

14th June 2023

 

Hillarys Blinds open up a bright future with a Centreco solar energy system

Image: Centreco Installation for Hillarys Blinds in Nottingham (48kW solar energy system)

  • Centreco deliver an industry-leading solar energy system Hillarys Blinds, the provider of high quality blinds, awnings, curtains and shutters
  • On site electricity generation is now in place through a 48kW capacity system at Nottingham Premises
  • Bespoke designed system comprising of 128 Tier One Solar Panels
  • CO2 emissions savings of over 260 Tonnes across the next 25 years
  • Equivalent electricity generated from the system at only 4.8p per kW Hour for the long-term

Leading UK installers of commercial Solar Energy Systems, Centreco (UK) Limited, are pleased to announce completion of a 48kW installation for leading suppliers of custom made blinds, Hillarys, at their premises in Nottingham. The solar energy system, consisting of 128 roof mounted tier-one panels, will allow the Company to generate their own green electricity, with the system projected to save over 260 Tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 25 years. This allows Hillarys to significantly reduce their carbon footprint, something of significant importance to the company.

Using in house resources, Centreco used the latest modelling techniques alongside site surveys, to design and install a bespoke solar energy system matching that of Hillarys’ energy demand, thereby ensuring the best long-term commercial returns for the business whilst maximising the potential of available roof space.

Since 1971, when Tony Hillary installed his first custom-made blind, Hillarys have been committed to surpassing customer expectations and maintaining their market-leading position. Now, with the addition of this solar energy system, Hillarys Blinds are able to benefit from fixed electricity costs of just 4.8p per kWh projected over the next 25 years.

This offers a substantial saving against grid supplied electricity rates available, it fundamentally reduces a core business overhead and protects against long-term inflationary pressures allowing Hilary’s a further competitive edge.

2023 saw the initiation of Hillarys sustainability plan with the aim of reducing their reliance on fossil fuels. With the addition of this system, Hillarys are demonstrating their focus on a greener future for the company, constituting the next major stage of achieving their sustainability goals.

Jim Eddy, Head of Engineering at Hillarys, oversaw the solar energy project on behalf of the company, when asked about the addition of this solar energy system he said “At a time when energy rates were at an all-time high, solar energy felt like a fitting next step to mitigate ever increasing energy rates. Given Centreco’s professionalism and portfolio of installations across the UK, we felt we were in safe hands throughout the process. Centreco’s detailed analysis and design work has opened up the potential of compelling returns from the system, this was a strong factor in our final decision to proceed with the project. We are looking forward to generating green electricity at our head office in Nottingham for a long time to come.”

Chris Duffy, senior energy consultant at Centreco commented, “Hillarys were a refreshing client to work with, the team immediately understood the array of benefits that a solar energy system can bring. It is also great that the Company instantly recognised the professionalism of Centreco and found themselves in safe hands with our business. We are really pleased to have worked with Hillarys on the installation of a self generating electricity power plant, one which will bring long term savings to their business and be a large step forward in meeting their sustainability goals. Myself and the whole team at Centreco look forward to working with Hillarys on potential projects in the future.

1st June 2023

Armstrong Priestley commit to a Green Future with a Centreco Solar Energy System

Image: Centreco Installation for Armstrong Priestley in Leeds (110kW solar energy system)

  • The UK’s leading independent fire protection contractor select Centreco to deliver future proofed Solar Energy System
  • 110kW capacity system installed at Leeds premises.
  • System comprised of 293 Tier One Solar Panels
  • CO2 emissions savings of over 523 Tonnes across the next 25 years
  • Equivalent electricity generated from the system at 3.9p per kW Hour.

Leading installers of commercial solar energy systems, Centreco (UK) Limited are pleased to announce the completion of a 110kW Roof Mounted Tier One Solar Energy System for Armstrong Priestley at their Leeds premises. The solar energy system consisting of 293 roof mounted tier one panels will allow Armstrong Priestley to generate their own green electricity, with the system predicted to save over 523 Tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 25 years. This accelerates this clients focus on reducing their carbon footprint, with the CO2 savings from the Solar Installation being equivalent to the emissions created by driving a passenger car for over 1,299,070 miles.

Armstrong Priestley already have an extensive environmental and sustainability policy across the company and the move to self-generated green energy sits alongside other initiatives such as an electric vehicle charging policy for their employees. This Centreco solar energy system complements their focus on working towards creating a green future for the company as they seek to further bolster their green credentials. Many companies such as Armstrong Priestley are focussing on improving their green credentials in line with new legislations introduced by the UK government as the country works towards a binding net-zero target by 2050.

With early indications from industry experts predicting that grid-based electricity prices will continue to rise from the already record rates currently being experienced, Armstrong Priestley by owning the system are now able to benefit from equivalent fixed electricity costs of just 3.9p per kWh for power  generated by the system. This “hedge price” applies across at least a 25 year period, being the long-term time-frame the solar panels carry a premium performance warranty. This provides Armstrong Priestley with immediate cost savings and protection against any future grid price inflation.

Anne-Marie, Joint Managing Director of Arnold Priestley commented on the installation by saying “At Armstrong Priestley we were delighted with the works carried out by Centreco and are pleased to be working alongside them to improve our environmental impact, reduce our carbon footprint and help the country achieve its net-zero target by 2050. We hope many other companies follow in our steps, to help support green initiatives. Many thanks to Centreco for their great work.”

Tom Knox, Business Development Director at Centreco reflected on the installation saying “Armstrong Priestley are typical of many companies as they look towards the installation of a Solar Energy system to reduce their carbon footprint in line with an increasing focus being placed on their green credentials. Solar ticks all of the boxes and provides a great tangible reduction in their carbon footprint alongside the enviable commercial returns.

Armstrong Priestley are proudly ‘the UK’s leading independent fire protection contractor’ and it is their focus on continual improvement within all aspects of the company that allows them to maintain this position, and this extends to their green credentials.

It was a pleasure to work with such an engaged client who immediately understood the benefits a Centreco solar energy system brings and one which was keen to integrate these commercial and environmental benefits into their operation using Centreco’s in house modelling, design and installation resources.”

18th May 2023

Manufacturer acclaims new Centreco solar energy system

"Centreco designed and delivered a tailored system that suited our needs perfectly"

Image: Centreco Installation at Heaps Arnold & Heaps Ltd, Rotherham (38kW solar energy system)

  • Centreco (UK) Limited install an industry-leading solar energy system for manufacturer of Lead, Tin and Solder products, Heaps Arnold & Heaps Ltd
  • On site electricity generation in place through a 38kW capacity renewable energy system at Rotherham Premises
  • Bespoke designed system comprising of 102 Tier One Solar Panels
  • CO2 emissions savings of over 184 Tonnes across the next 25 years
  • Equivalent electricity generated from the system at only 4.5p per kW Hour for the long-term

Leading UK installers of commercial Solar Energy Systems, Centreco (UK) Limited, are pleased to announce completion of a 38kW installation for a world-leading manufacturer of Lead, Tin and Solder products. Heaps Arnold & Heaps Ltd (Heaps Arnold or Heaps) are now benefiting from the addition of a new solar energy system at their manufacturing premises in Rotherham.

The solar energy system, consisting of 102 roof mounted tier-one panels, will allow Heaps Arnold to generate their own green electricity, with the system predicted to save over 184 Tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 25 years, allowing Heaps Arnold to reduce their carbon footprint, something of significant importance to the company as they strive to meet the needs of constantly evolving environmental standards.

As market leaders in the manufacturing of Lead, Tin and Solder products for a range of sectors including Construction and Engineering, Heaps Arnold are a high end user of electricity. Ever-increasing energy costs prompted the company to explore the possibility of a renewable energy system at their plant in Rotherham. After initial conversations between Heaps and Centreco the benefits of solar energy soon became clear. The move to self-generated electricity through a Centreco system allows Heaps to significantly lower their energy overheads and offers immediate financial benefits.

Heaps Arnold are now able to benefit from fixed electricity costs of just 4.5p per kWh projected over the next 25 years. This offers a substantial saving against grid supplied electricity rates currently available and protects against future energy price inflation.

Established in 1770, Heaps, Arnold & Heaps has, throughout its history, developed to provide high quality products and services to its high-profile global customers. They now operate from a modern extrusion facility in Rotherham and are conscious of remaining both competitive through cost management and moving towards a sustainable supply chain model through environmental initiatives. The Centreco Solar Energy System meets both objectives for the Company.

The General Manager of Heaps Arnold, Marc Briscoe, who oversaw the solar energy project and has worked with the company since 1996, said “Given the prolonged energy crisis, we decided to explore the possibility of using solar energy at our site in Rotherham. After initial contact with Centreco it didn’t take us long to understand the array of benefits a system would deliver for our company.

Centreco designed and delivered a tailored system that suited our needs perfectly, their industry experience and professionalism gave us peace of mind throughout the whole process.

Our system is now fully operational and we are enjoying the benefits of generating our own green, renewable energy”

Centreco’s Northern Operations Manager Steve Coyne said, “Quality manufacturing operations like Heaps Arnold are adapting to changing market dynamics, with overhead and environmental pressures being to the fore. Astute and forward thinking businesses, are shaping their operations for the future and turning to self-generated green energy as a method of long-term cost saving and a step towards environmental integrity.

Heaps Arnold have constantly adapted a long standing business to lead their market and the move to a Centreco Solar Energy System was a natural progression for them. They were a pleasure to work with throughout the installation process, from the initial contact with our design and development teams, through the installation process to the commissioning of the system. Solar energy is a win-win for this world-renowned manufacturer and Centreco are proud to have played a part in future proofing the Heaps’ operations.”

12th May 2023

Centreco shield electrical insulation business from energy price hikes with new solar energy system

Image: Section of Centreco solar pv system mid installation at UK Insulation, Blackburn (42kW Solar Energy System)

  • Centreco (UK) Limited install an industry-leading solar energy system for premium supplier of electrical insulation materials, UK Insulations Limited
  • On site electricity generation in place through a 42kW capacity renewable energy system at Blackburn Premises
  • Bespoke designed system comprising of 113 Tier One Solar Panels
  • CO2 emissions savings of over 220 Tonnes across the next 25 years
  • Equivalent electricity generated from the system at only 5.3p per kW Hour for the long-term

Leading UK installers of commercial Solar Energy Systems, Centreco (UK) Limited, are pleased to announce completion of a 42kW installation for a premium supplier of electrical insulation materials, UK Insulations Limited (UKI) at their premises in Blackburn. The solar energy system consisting of 113 roof mounted tier-one panels will allow UKI to generate their own green electricity, with the system predicted to save over 220 Tonnes of CO2 emissions over the next 25 years, allowing UKI to reduce their carbon footprint, something of significant importance to the company for the future.

 

UKI operate a state of the art manufacturing process and are relatively high users of electricity as a result. Being proud of their price competitiveness in the market, UKI needed a solution to ever-increasing energy costs. The move to self-generated solar energy through a Centreco system allows the business to significantly lower their cost per kWh and in tandem bolsters their wider environmental and sustainability credentials.

 

UKI are now able to benefit from fixed electricity costs of just 5.3p per kWh projected over the next 25 years. This offers a substantial saving against grid supplied electricity rates currently available, it fundamentally reduces a core business overhead and protects against long-term inflationary pressures on these energy costs.

 

UKI are a business focussed on reliability and quality, they are ISO 9001:2008 accredited and when choosing a partner to install their renewable energy system they wanted to work with a business which shared their philosophies and had the experience to deliver a commercial solar energy system with the upmost skill and professionalism.

 

The Managing Director of UK Insulations, David Merrick, who oversaw the solar energy project on behalf of the company, said “Solar seemed like the fitting next step given the current global energy crisis. It was important for us to protect ourselves from the possibility of future inflations in energy prices. Centreco reached out to us as a business which had the track record and experience in designing and installing systems for manufacturing businesses similar to UKI. We liked the fact they focus on the UK business market and had undertaken hundreds of similar installations, demonstrated by their impressive range of case studies.

 

We went ahead with Centreco because of their ability to work alongside our company to design a system which was focussed on maximising the financial returns and the environmental benefits of self-generated renewable energy. We thank Centreco for the work that went into this, their onsite installation service lived up to expectations and our system is now fully operational and we are enjoying the benefits of using green energy here at our premises in Blackburn.”

 

Centreco’s Senior Project Manager Chris Ruddock said, “It is great to see that UKI recognised the professionalism and experience of Centreco’s operation and we are proud to have delivered a system which will progress the company’s environmental standing and contribute to UKI remaining a high quality, competitive leader in the UK electrical insulation sector. UKI were a pleasure to work with throughout the design and build process, with a like minded approach to compliance, reliability and responsiveness throughout their operation. We wish them well with their system which will hold the business in good stead for many years to come.” 

24th April 2023

Centreco delivers solar energy system for leading stationery manufacturer

Image: Centreco installation at Duraweld Limited, Scarborough (81kW Solar Energy System)

  • Leading Stationery Manufacturer, Duraweld Ltd, work with Centreco (UK) Limited to install their industry-leading solar energy system
  • On site electricity generation in place through a 81kW capacity system at Scarborough Premises
  • Bespoke designed system comprising of 196 Tier One Solar Panels
  • CO2emissions savings of over 392 Tonnes across the next 25 years
  • Equivalent electricity generated from the system at only 4.9p per kW Hour for the long-term

Leading installers of commercial Solar Energy Systems, Centreco (UK) Limited, announce the completion of an 81kW installation for Duraweld Ltd at their premises in Scarborough, North Yorkshire.

The solar energy system consisting of 196 roof mounted tier one panels will allow this high-quality stationary manufacturer to generate their own green electricity, with the system predicted to save over 392 Tonnes of COemissions over the next 25 years. This allows Duraweld to reduce their carbon footprint, something of significant importance to the business as they seek to further bolster their green credentials.

Using in house resources, Centreco used the latest modelling techniques alongside site surveys, to design and install a bespoke solar energy system matching Duraweld’s electricity usage profile, thereby ensuring the best long-term commercial returns for the business whilst maximising the available roof space.

Duraweld is an highly innovative and creative manufacturing business, their stationery products are distributed into the healthcare, educational, legal and commercial sectors. They enjoy the NHS and the Football Association amongst their many prestigious clients.

Key to Duraweld is delivering value to this customer base and by substantially reducing its energy supply costs through the installation of a Centreco solar energy system, the Company has effectively hedged one of its significant overheads to a level well below market rate and insulated the Company from future electricity price inflation allowing it to better control product costs.

Duraweld own their installation outright and the Centreco solar energy system will produce electricity at an equivalent fixed electricity cost of just 4.9p per kWh for them over the next 25 years.

Tom Knox, business development director at Centreco commented, “From our initial conversations with Duraweld, it was clear that a commercial solar energy system would be a huge advantage to their manufacturing cost base. Like all of our installations, the benefits of a Centreco solar energy system offers immediate cost savings and will offer long term protection from electricity price inflation.

Duraweld are an innovative and astute manufacturer. In our discussions with the client their environmental awareness was obvious and like many high-quality manufacturing businesses a move to on site renewable energy generation through a Centreco solar energy system became a natural choice for the Company.

We are pleased to have worked alongside this forward-thinking stationery manufacturer and wish them well with the hyper low cost electricity generation plant we have delivered for them.

6th April 2023

 

Centreco further increases solar energy deployment

Image: Centreco installation at M-Tech Engineering (93kW Solar System)  

  • Continued growth in Centreco’s solar energy installation rates in third quarter of financial year
  • Strong progress in contracted project development for the Company
  • Environmental and financial factors drive long-term growth in the sector
  • Investment made in installation capacity and operational resources in the period to drive further expansion

Centreco, a principal commercial solar energy systems installer for businesses in the United Kingdom, is pleased to announce further increased installation deployment through the third quarter of its financial year.

Now with thirteen operational installation teams throughout the country Centreco delivered 6.1MW of new solar energy system capacity across 26 client sites in the three months to end February 2023. This deployment represents a future CO2 saving in excess of 30,000 Tonnes over the 25-year warranted performance cycle of the tier one panels specified across these energy systems.

Centreco anticipates its solar energy deployment to increase further into the final quarter of its financial year as improved weather conditions and the roll out of further operational resources accelerates the installation rates against the range of contracted and approved projects the Company has in place.

The financial proposition from on-site self-generated solar energy for a business in the UK is extremely compelling, with systems delivering immediate pay-backs to clients through an equivalent fixed electricity price of 2p to 4p per kWHr hedged over the 25-year warranted term. This price position offers substantial savings to a business who are now paying upwards from 25p per kWHr in the open commercial electricity market.

A Centreco solar energy system will protect a business against electricity price inflation, will deliver premium financial returns and enhance the market value of any commercial premises.

The attractiveness of the proposition and Centreco’s dedicated premium approach to the business market has additionally seen its project development teams secure 9.1MW of contracted installations during the third financial quarter. This bodes well for the Company’s installation run rates through the latter period of the 2023 calendar year when these projects will reach grid approval stage and the Company’s installation resources are aligned accordingly.

Jon Williams, Managing Director of Centreco commented “Centreco are pleased with the solar energy deployment rates delivered during the last three months, notably as this Winter period has seen poorer weather conditions for our operations and despite this, we have delivered a very strong installation performance across the business. We are also encouraged by the project development out-turn in the quarter, this contracted work aligns well to our continued roll out of installation capacity through 2023.

The three-months has also seen investment in our vehicle fleet, operational equipment and an increase in our commitment to staff training and quality initiatives as we expand our installation teams throughout the country.

With continued environmental pressures on property conformance and across supply chains coupled with long-term energy price impacts on businesses we see the commercial solar energy systems market continuing to grow at pace over the coming years. We are laying a strong foundation to lead the sector for the long-term and our increased installation reach and project development resources will be the catalyst to deliver an increasing number of premium systems for our growing client base across the United Kingdom.”

31st March 2023

Centreco deliver green energy generation for Shand Higson

Image: Centreco installation at Shand Higson, Merseyside (56kW Solar Energy System) 

  • Leading packaging merchant, Shand Higson, work with Centreco (UK) Limited to install their industry-leading solar energy system
  • On site electricity generation in place through a 56kW capacity system at Merseyside Premises
  • Bespoke designed system comprising of 150 Tier One Solar Panels
  • CO2 emissions savings of over 283 Tonnes across the next 25 years
  • Equivalent electricity generated from the system at 5.9p per kW Hour for the long term

Leading installers of commercial Solar Energy Systems, Centreco (UK) Limited, announce completion of a 56kW installation for Shand Higson at their premises in Knowsley, Merseyside. The solar energy system consisting of 150 roof mounted tier one panels will allow this pre-eminent multi-faceted packaging merchant to generate their own green electricity, with the system predicted to save over 283 Tonnes of COemissions over the next 25 years. These CO2 savings are equivalent to 703,000 miles driven by an average passenger car.

This system has been delivered as part of  Shand Higson’s move to drive its sustainability agenda as a leader in the wholesale packaging materials and repackaging marketplace. Shand Higson is employee owned and as a business where its staff drive and own the corporate goals it is important that an environmental focus features in the Company’s strategy. 

Also key to Shand Higson is delivering value to its clients and by substantially reducing its energy supply costs through the installation of the Centreco solar energy system so the Company has effectively hedged one of its significant overheads to a level well below market rate and insulated the Company from future electricity price inflation. This move contributes to Shand Higson’s cost effectiveness in their sector for the long term. 

The Centreco solar energy system will produce electricity at an equivalent fixed electricity cost of just 5.9 per kWh over the next 25 years.

Using their wealth of knowledge and experience Centreco designed and modelled the solar energy system to match Shand Higson’s electricity usage profile and site layout, using redundant roof space to generate electricity the system offers premium returns as a result and increases the value of the Company’s property asset.

Mark Dyes, Operations Director at Shand Higson commented  “Shand Higson was established in 1828 and has provided its customers  with quality products and great service at competitive prices from inception. As an established, employee-owned business we wanted to add an environmental feature in our offering to differentiate ourselves and stay ahead of the market through sustainable initiatives and maintain a low energy supply cost base to enhance our competitiveness.

We had therefore been contemplating self-generated solar energy for a while at our base in Knowsley. Centreco came along and made the process very easy for us, we were impressed by their large number of similar installations and great industry reputation. They made things very easy for us. They have designed and installed a system that delivers the benefits we are looking for and future-proofed our energy supply for the site. We are very pleased with the system and its installation. Centreco were first class.

Centreco continue to lead the  commercial solar energy systems market in the United Kingdom, and this latest project adds another successful installation for the business to the over 200 commercial systems already delivered by Centreco.

Chris Duffy, senior energy consultant at Centreco commented, “ Shand Higson are a long-standing high quality packaging materials business. They do things right and by establishing that a solar energy system would deliver environmental and cost benefits they have moved to stay ahead in their market place. Centreco were only too happy to work alongside the team at Shand Higson to bring this installation to fruition in a timely and cost effective manner. Like all of our installations the benefits of a Centreco solar energy system will offer immediate returns and will serve the client well for the long term.”

                                                                                                                                                          22nd March 2023