After being faced with increasing pressure from rising electricity costs and price volatility in the UK energy market, the business not only wanted to reduce its carbon footprint, but also to significantly reduce costs.
Previously relying entirely on the national grid for its electricity, the company sought a cleaner, more cost-effective way to power its operations and reduce grid dependency.
Other key project requirements included a relatively short payback period, minimal disruption to daily operations during installation, and a technically capable partner to deliver the project seamlessly, end-to-end.
The company partnered with Certas Energy’s commercial solar installation company, Centreco, to design and install the high-performance system, whichin the first quarter alone has generated almost £6000 in total savings. Apart from mitigating exposure to future energy price volatility, the installation has improved cost control and enhanced long-term business resilience. 
He continued: “For us, solar was the only viable renewable energy solution. But it wasn’t just about reducing our energy costs; it was about building business resilience and enhancing brand trust.
“The results have been exactly as promised – some great savings to our bottom line and an innovative project that genuinely supports our long-term sustainability strategy.”
The 206.25kW solar PV system, installed on the expansive roof of the company’s head office and distribution centre in Burnley, Lancashire, is expected to generate approximately 164,000 kWh of electricity each year.
This will offset a significant portion of the site’s annual electricity consumption, resulting in a considerable reduction in grid dependency and energy costs.
In addition to the solar PV array, the system includes advanced monitoring technology, allowing the company to track energy production and carbon savings in real time.
Centreco worked closely with James Hargreaves (Plumbers Merchants) Ltd to ensure their solar installation aligned with the company’s operational needs and long-term objectives.
The installation was completed with minimal disruption to the business and is already delivering measurable benefits.
By harnessing the power of solar energy, James Hargreaves is not only lowering its carbon emissions but also strengthening its position as a responsible and future-focused organisation in the UK’s plumbing and heating sector.
To learn more about commercial solar installations, visit our renewables page
