Structure-flex make the solar switch to boost sustainability
The UK’s largest supplier of lorry tension curtains and graphics has boosted their sustainability with an investment in 488 solar panels.
With the global emphasis on renewable energy and reducing the carbon footprint of commercial operations to help achieve net-zero targets, Structure-flex have made a leap towards harnessing renewable energy.
“Now more than ever, everyone has to play their part in reducing their impact on climate change, both as individuals and as companies. That’s why we have made this significant investment in sustainable energy” says Paul Reeve, Managing Director of Structure-flex.
This is the latest major step in Structure-flex’s plans to improve the sustainability of operations at their facility in North Norfolk.
They have had fifty percent of the roof area on their factory covered with solar panels which convert sunlight into electricity. Electrical infrastructure was also preinstalled for the second phase of solar panels.
“Covering 10,225 square feet of our roof in solar panels was an impressive sight to see. It makes great sense to harness the energy readily available, reduce our overall energy costs by around 27% annually and provide excess renewable power to the grid” adds Paul Reeve.
The bespoke solar solution was engineered and installed by the Norwich based renewable energy developer, RenEnergy.
RenEnergy is an international energy business, operating primarily in the UK and South Africa, focusing on the application of solar technology, energy storage and electric vehicle charging.
Since 2006, they have been pioneers in renewable energy and advocates for the environmental and value beliefs which solar solutions deliver. They consult on, design and deliver innovative renewable energy solutions to clients globally.
“We are delighted to be playing a part in Structure-flex’s journey to improve the sustainability of their operations. The company itself has stood the test of time, and now they are making a valuable contribution to environmental sustainability, as well as safeguarding the company against rising energy costs” says Damian Baker, Managing Director of RenEnergy.
With the average house consuming 3,500kWh in a year, the installed PV array will generate the equivalent energy to power 56 homes. This is enough energy to save nearly 60 tonnes of CO2 annually.
In times of peak energy use in the factory, the electricity gained from the sun will provide up to 50% of daily consumption and will help power everything from lighting to their high-frequency welding machines and grand-format printers.
When the factory is closed or running with less energy, the spare energy generated by the solar panels is redirected into the national grid to provide others with sustainable electricity.
This is the latest in a number of significant investments for Structure-flex, having recently invested in industry-leading high-frequency welding equipment used to bond the products they manufacture from flexible thermoplastic.
“We partner with our clients, understanding their changing energy needs and aspirations over time – we look forward working with Structure-flex on the next steps on their sustainability journey” concludes Damian Baker.
Structure-flex was established in 1970, just one year after the flexible lorry tension curtain was first introduced.
As well as being the UK’s leading suppliers of lorry tension curtains, they provide a wide range of other products produced from flexible thermoplastic, including bulk packaging, proof test bags, air lift bags and the Mobildeich flood-defence system.
Structure-flex also deliver a wide range of digital printing from vehicle graphics and wraps, to signage and advertising.
“We are constantly looking for more ways in which we can reduce our impact on the environment and this is a big leap forward. As we continue to provide our clients with industry-leading lorry tension-curtains, we want to implement new ways to make our operations more sustainable” concludes Paul Reeve.
For more information on Structure-flex, visit https://www.structure-flex.co.uk/
