Northern Excellence

Evoco Energy, the specialist in small scale turbine technology, has established a Renewable Centre of Excellence at St Peg's Mill in Brighouse, Yorkshire, and is offering space to local companies looking to grow their business in the renewables sector. As well as promoting innovation and industry growth, the aim is to create a hub where all those interested in renewable technologies can learn more about the different options available. The 70,000 sq ft mill conversion offering warehousing and office space reinforces Evoco's commitment to enhancing and promoting alternative energy.

Zenex Solar, one of the UK's leading solar wholesale distribution companies has already set up shop at the centre. Zenex will bring over 300 solar products to the renewables hub, with a multimillion pound stock inventory that ensures fast, reliable delivery across the UK. Leading Solar installer, Ploughcroft Solar are also on site, as are Q-Gen Heatpumps, an MCS-accredited (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) ground and air source heat pump provider. However, there are a number of units still available, and Evoco is keen to hear from any clean-tech players that might be interested, as it looks to create a one-stop-shop for renewables innovation and education. 

As such, the centre of excellence at St Peg's Mill will also be hosting a series of conferences moving forward, with guest speakers invited to discuss the wide range of issues and trends shaping developments in the energy industry. The first such event, a Renewables Evening with Andrew Miller MP, chair of the Science and Technology select committee was held in June 2010 and attracted a diverse cross-section of visitors drawn from across the various renewables communities. The next event planned is a technical solar training day, with inverter specification covered by international supplier, Fronius, and information on mounting solutions provided by specialist manufacturer, Renusol. The event is attracting great interest from the solar trade and installation professionals. 

“The creation of this centre of excellence is a natural progression for Evoco,” said Ryan Gill, managing director, Evoco Energy. “Combining our experience, knowledge and passion for renewable energy and clean tech, with that of other renewable pioneers not only supports our ongoing campaign to raise awareness of alternative energy solutions both locally and nationally, but strengthens the overall competitiveness of the renewables and clean tech industry.”

The Renewable Centre of Excellence also strives to be an environmentally friendly site. Evoco has planted a rain irrigated vertical green wall, which is approximately 100 m2 making it one of the largest in Yorkshire. As well as providing local visual aesthetics and complementing the business ethics of all the companies residing at the centre, the green wall acts as a habitat for biodiversity and improves insulation. Meanwhile, the roof of Evoco's head office has been fitted with a solar PV array that is currently being expanded to house a 50 kW install. Once complete, the solar PV array will also power the Centre of Excellence. 

The centre is the latest development as part of Evoco's ongoing commitment to clean energy. In January, the company achieved MCS accreditation, meaning its turbines are eligible for the UK's Feed-In-Tariff (FiT). And in April, Evoco appointed leading entrepreneur, Lawrence Tomlinson, as a director.