The solar array at the site, which processes 14.8 million linear metres of machined goods annually, will generate 160,000kW for the company’s own use, meeting its entire requirements, and 40,000kW for sale. That equates, says the company, to the energy produced by 9.7 million gallons of petrol. It declined to disclose the cost, but said it represented a significant investment.
The system was installed by EnergyGain UK and equates to 50 domestic solar installations, comprising 12, 16kW units, each with their own inverter to aid efficiency monitoring.
"We operate in a very competitive market, so it is important to find cost savings we can pass on to customers and reduce overall running costs," said chairman Simon Gravely.
The investment, he added, also underlined Illingworth Ingham’s environmental commitment, shrinking its CO2 output by 94,438kg a year.
"Our annual green electricity production will be equivalent to 3,600 trees cleaning the air each year," said Mr Graveley.
The Trafford Park site supplies general joinery makers, merchants, builders, kitchen, window, door and stair makers in the north and Midlands.
