Belzona—a Harrogate-based firm specializing in polymeric repair and protection systems—has taken a significant step toward a more sustainable future by installing 762 solar panels on the roofs of its two buildings on Claro Road.
Sufficient to Power More Than 100 Homes
Image: Collected
The solar panels, spanning 1,486 square meters, are projected to produce over 300,000 kWh of electricity annually. To put that figure into perspective, Ofgem—the energy regulator for Great Britain—notes that the typical UK household uses 2,700 kWh of electricity per year. This means the new installation’s output is enough to power 111 homes. Local contractor R&B Mechanical & Electrical Ltd handled the installation.
Helen Parris, QSHE Manager and head of Belzona’s Environmental Committee, commented on the company’s long-standing commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
“We’ve been dedicated to minimizing our environmental footprint for several years. While we’re still progressing on our path to achieving net zero, the installation of these solar panels marks a significant stride forward,” Parris said.
100% Reliance on Renewable Energy
According to the Harrogate Informer, the company estimates the solar panels will offset their own lifecycle energy consumption within just a few years. Designed to maintain efficiency over their 20-year lifespan, the panels are expected to produce at least 6 million kWh of power and will continue converting solar energy into usable electricity long after.
Belzona views this initiative as a key demonstration of its commitment to its site and environmental goals. Last year, the company also renewed its contract with its renewable electricity provider, ensuring all remaining energy needs are met by sustainable sources. This means Belzona’s entire electricity consumption now comes from renewable energy. While the company did not disclose the installation cost, it confirmed to the Stray Ferret that it was a substantial investment.
University of York’s £1.5 million Solar Farm Completed
In a related development, Siemens has completed a £1.5 million solar farm project designed to enhance the University of York’s research capabilities. Generating 200kWp, the farm will support the university’s Institute for Safe Autonomy by enabling research into robotic and autonomous systems for inspecting and maintaining solar arrays.
Funded by the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund, the farm will serve as a ‘living lab’ and provide 80% of the institute’s energy needs, with the goal of making it energy neutral by 2025. Siemens provided consultancy for designing and optimizing the arrays and setting up data collection systems, while LYNX Sustainable Solutions handled the installation.
The 1,400-square-meter solar farm includes various panel configurations and integrates solar panels directly into the Institute’s building structure. Professor Miles Elsden, Director of the Institute for Safe Autonomy, emphasized that combining robotics with renewable energy production is crucial for achieving net zero emissions. He noted the project is a key milestone for the Institute and reaffirms the university’s dedication to sustainable energy.
Belzona’s new rooftop solar array demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Similarly, the Siemens solar farm at the University of York underscores the growing importance of integrating renewable energy with cutting-edge research. These initiatives are both powerful examples of the collective effort toward a more sustainable future.