Forterra Goes Solar

BUILDING PRODUCTS manufacturer Forterra has recently installed almost 7,000 solar panels at its new state-of-the-art factory in Desford, Leicestershire.

With a projected energy output of 2.6 megawatts, the solar panels will generate approximately 16% of the factory’s energy demands at full capacity.

Combining cost-efficiency with sustainability, the solar panels are predicted to reduce the Desford factory’s annual CO₂ emissions by 500 tonnes while curtailing Forterra’s energy expenses by around £400,000.

Any unused electricity will be exported back to the grid for re-use, ensuring maximum efficiency.

The solar panels have been installed by Custom Solar, a company that designs, installs and maintains nationwide solar panel systems for corporations and public sector institutions.

Solar Installation

David Manley, Head of Sustainability for Forterra, said: “The installation of the solar panels represents a further step on our progress towards net-zero. We have set ourselves ambitious ESG targets to reduce our carbon emissions by a further 32% before 2030, and investments such as this one demonstrate that we are actively committed to this goal.

“With these solar panels, we are actually investing in a dedicated source of renewable energy of our own, providing additionality. This is crucial in helping to decarbonise the grid, something that is critical to the UK’s net zero journey.”

Forterra’s additional sustainability measures include using HVO (bio diesel) fuel to power all the company’s mobile machinery at its Measham facility. Also, the company has made the switch to electric and hybrid vehicles in its car fleet. Not only that, a £21 million investment in its haulage fleet will further advance the company’s move to Euro 6 compliance.

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