In today’s world, businesses are becoming increasingly aware of the impact they have on the environment. As a result, many companies are seeking sustainable solutions such as solar power installation, to reduce their carbon footprint, lower their energy costs, and increase their profitability. Unifabs Limited is one such company that has taken a bold step towards sustainable business growth. Their decision to shift towards renewable energy is not only eco-friendly, but it also presents a cost-effective solution that benefits both the business and the environment.
Unifabs’ solar panel installation
Unifabs has made a huge commitment to sustainability and green energy with a £355k investment to switch to solar energy. This investment will help reduce their carbon footprint and make the business more cost-effective.
Commercial solar PV specialists, Centreco (UK) Ltd supplied the solar panel installation at Unifabs’ sheet metal manufacturing business in Nuneaton. The installation commenced in May 2023.
This cost-effective solution not only benefits the business through offsetting energy usage, but also the environment with its eco-friendly approach. By investing in this, Unifabs will reduce its carbon footprint, making it an important step towards sustainable growth.
Here are the technical specs:
- 995 PV modules
- DC power of 373.13 kWp
- Roof space covered approximately 2000 m²
- Annual estimated energy 313.69 (MWh)
The importance of sustainable business growth
Sustainability is a critical aspect of business growth, and it has become a top priority for many companies worldwide. Sustainable business practices refer to the integration of environmental, social, and economic considerations into business operations. The goal is to ensure that businesses operate in a manner that is socially responsible, environmentally sound, and economically viable. By adopting sustainable business practices, companies can reduce their environmental impact. This can also increase their profitability while also contributing to the well-being of society.
Sustainable business growth is essential for the long-term success of any business. It ensures that the company remains competitive in a rapidly changing world. It also enables it to meet the evolving needs of its customers. A sustainable business is also better equipped to manage risks and take advantage of opportunities arising as a result of changes in the business environment.
As a high energy user, this investment allows Unifabs to offset their usage by turning to renewable sources of energy. The solar panel installation is an eco-friendly solution that is both cost-effective and beneficial to the environment. Not only will it help Unifabs reduce their carbon footprint and build a more sustainable business model but it also allows them to use as much green energy as possible and ensure their long-term success.
Managing Director 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.”
How solar PV systems work
Sunlight falls on high capacity solar panels during the day. The panels convert the sun’s energy into direct current (DC) electricity, which is sent to an inverter to convert it to alternating current (AC) electricity. If the system produces more electricity than is needed during peak daylight hours, excess is sent to the grid. Power is continually provided at night and during daylight hours via the utility company in circumstances where demand exceeds production.
Unifabs’ solar power investment includes a 373 kWp solar panel array installed on five of the company’s factory roofs. This encompasses 995 photovoltaic (PV) modules and covers a combined area of approximately 2000 square metres. The solar panel array is connected to the utility company, and any excess energy generated is exported to the grid. It is anticipated that it will generate approximately 313 MWh of electricity per year. This is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of approximately 128 average homes in the UK.
Benefits of investing in solar power installation
Investing in solar power is one of the most effective ways for companies to achieve sustainable business growth. Solar power is a renewable source of energy that is abundant, clean, and cost-effective. By investing in solar power, companies can reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. They can lower their energy costs, and can reduce their carbon footprint.
The electricity generated by the solar panel array at Unifabs powers their manufacturing operations. As a business which heavily relies on power to deliver its services, another benefit of is that it is a reliable source of energy. And as such, it can help avoid the negative impact of power outages.
Conclusion
Following 15 years of business growth, from one machine to now occupying over 54,000 square feet of manufacturing space, the installation of solar power represents an important step in Unifabs’ journey towards more sustainable growth. This expansion of green energy usage also serves as an example to other businesses, demonstrating that it is not only possible but necessary to take action towards a more sustainable future. By focusing on renewable energy sources like solar power, and continuing to work on sustainable processes, Unifabs is leading the way in creating a better future for everyone.
