Uform completes major rooftop solar installation in Toomebridge, boosting sustainability and savings

Uform Leads on Sustainable Manufacturing with New Solar Project

In a significant step towards sustainable manufacturing, Uform, a leading manufacturer and distributor of kitchen, bedroom, and furniture components, has completed a large-scale rooftop solar installation at its 225,000 sq ft facility in Toomebridge, County Antrim.

The ambitious project, delivered in partnership with Ireland’s foremost industrial decarbonisation specialist, Astatine, and PV Solar experts Premier Electrical Group, marks a milestone in Uform’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact while achieving substantial cost savings.

The state-of-the-art solar photovoltaic (PV) system features a 500 kW capacity, powered by approximately 1,130 high-performance solar panels.

This cutting-edge installation is expected to generate around 400,000 kWh of clean energy annually, reducing Uform’s reliance on grid electricity by 17%.

The environmental benefits are equally impressive, with the system projected to cut carbon emissions by an estimated 130,000 kg of CO2 each year—the equivalent of the carbon offset produced by approximately 9,000 evergreen trees.

Financial and environmental benefits

The transition to renewable solar energy is not only an environmental win but also a financially savvy move for Uform. The company anticipates annual savings of £87,000 on electricity costs, significantly lowering its operational expenses.

With an estimated payback period of just 3-4 years, the project is set to deliver nearly £2.9 million in savings over an estimated 25-year lifespan.

Simon Oliphant, Uform Group CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the project’s success, stating:

“We’re thrilled to have undertaken this ambitious project, which underscores our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and is helping us to achieve our energy reduction targets as part of our overall company environmental and sustainability goals. Plus, the total project savings, over an estimated 25 years, runs to nearly £2.9 million, that is a considerable saving for our operations.

“From start to finish, the Astatine team has made the whole design and installation process seamless, and the results have exceeded our early expectations.”

A collaborative effort for sustainability

The project was delivered through a strategic partnership with Astatine and Premier Electrical Group, both leaders in their respective fields.

Tom Marren, CEO of Astatine, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, saying:

“Our collaboration with Uform highlights the company’s dedication to forward-thinking energy solutions, reducing the company’s reliance on traditional power sources while reinforcing long-term sustainability goals.

“The project also shows the incredible benefits and potential of rooftop solar solutions which leverage otherwise unused space for real world energy-reductions and money savings – doing right by the environment while boosting the bottom line.”

This initiative aligns with Uform’s broader sustainability strategy, which encompasses social responsibility, environmental protection, and economic viability. By integrating renewable energy solutions, Uform is setting a benchmark for the manufacturing sector in Northern Ireland and beyond.

Uform’s commitment to innovation

Uform, a key player in the UK and Ireland’s kitchen, bedroom, and furniture trade, is no stranger to innovation. In addition to its sustainability efforts, the company has partnered with German storage brand Vauth-Sagel to introduce a cutting-edge range of storage solutions to the trade.

This new distribution channel further solidifies Uform’s reputation for delivering high-quality, innovative products to its customers.

The Toomebridge solar project is a testament to Uform’s forward-thinking approach, demonstrating how businesses can balance environmental responsibility with economic benefits. By leveraging unused rooftop space, Uform has created a model for other manufacturers looking to adopt renewable energy solutions.

For more information on Uform’s sustainability initiatives and product offerings, including the new Vauth-Sagel storage solutions, visit www.uform.co.uk.