Zestec Renewable Energy and energy advisor Inspired recently held a showcase event at Leggett & Platt's Barnsley manufacturing site, unveiling a brand-new flagship 4MW rooftop solar PV system, one of the largest single-roof rooftop installations in the UK.
A number of businesses were invited to the site to see the system, which comprises over 7,700 solar panels and 25 inverters.
The project has been funded through Zestec Renewable Energy's Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) model, giving Leggett & Platt access to lower-cost renewable electricity generated on-site, and greater energy independence from the national grid.
Inspired, a UK energy and sustainability consultancy, supported the project from initial design through to installation and delivery.
Guests at the event heard from George Orrell, head of finance at Leggett & Platt, on the sustainability strategy and decision-making behind the project. Sophie Breakell, BDM at Zestec, and Craig Needham, Inspired's MD: optimisation, also discussed the commercial impact of the installation, including cost savings, risk reduction and wider supply-chain benefits.
Attendees were then given a guided tour of the manufacturing facility and the rooftop solar PV system itself.
Craig Needham says: “Inspired is delighted to be working with its group company, Businesswise, in partnership with Zestec to support Leggett & Platt in the commissioning of a 4MW rooftop solar PV system at their Barnsley site. We're proud to have supported the full delivery, from the initial design phase through to installation, enabling Leggett & Platt to generate their own green energy, significantly reduce energy costs, and minimise dependence on the national grid.”
Zestec's Simon Booth comments: “This is one of the largest single-roof rooftop solar installations we've delivered, and it shows exactly what our PPA model is designed to do – give businesses like Leggett & Platt access to lower-cost renewable electricity generated on-site, and greater energy independence, without the upfront capital investment. Projects of this scale only come together through strong partnership, and working alongside Inspired and the team at Leggett & Platt has been a great example of that.”
Adam Ball, commercial manager at Leggett & Platt, concludes: “We were delighted to host key customers at our open day, giving them the opportunity to see our new solar installation and learn more about our commitment to reducing environmental impact. This project is a testament to the power of collaboration, and we thank Inspired and Zestec for their expertise and partnership throughout the journey.”
