lower operating costs, protection against volatile energy prices and improved sustainability that impresses major supermarkets and foodservice customers.
“ The UK food and drink industry has reached a tipping point where solar has moved from a sustainability project to a business investment. It makes sense to harness available energy, reduce costs, improve profits and win contracts” states Joanne.
The demand for many summer seasonal products also comes as the UK experiences its highest levels of sunlight, making the argument for solar energy more appealing.
“ For many fresh, refrigerated and seasonal products, solar generation can align well with periods of higher production and cooling demand. Where appropriate, battery storage can also be integrated to retain surplus solar energy for later use, including during extended shifts or periods of higher demand” adds Joanne.
Fusion 360 specialises in electrical design and installation, including new-building electrics, communications networking and installing solar PV panels on both new and existing buildings.
The firm recently replaced over 4,000 solar panels at Aldi’ s regional distribution centre in Bathgate, Scotland, with improved solar technology now providing the key operation with self-generated and lower-cost electricity.
“ Many food and drink operations have expansive roofs which lend themselves perfectly to solar energy. Technology and installation costs have fallen while panel efficiency has improved” says Joanne.
Continuous advances in photovoltaic( PV) technology have led to a new generation of solar panels which deliver greater power, longer life and a faster return on investment.
As well as providing sustainable power for food and drink companies, some of the solar PV systems which Fusion 360 installs can also be designed either to restrict export to the grid or to supply surplus energy back to the network where suitable arrangements are in place.
“ For food and drink manufacturers, summer can bring higher production demand, greater refrigeration loads and pressure to control operating costs. On-site solar can help businesses make use of available roof space to generate electricity at the point it is needed most” concludes Joanne.
Find out more about Fusion 360 at www. fusion360group. co. uk
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