JD Williams On Trend As It Goes Solar
Installing the system was a challenge because the roof is designed to collect cold water for cooling the building. To ensure a successful installation with minimal disruption during the construction phase, Solarcentury took extra time to validate the design; it used pre-tested mounting kit; and it selected high quality technology suppliers for the solar equipment. Trusted sub-contractors who have helped Solarcentury deliver other successful solar projects were employed, who are closely aligned with Solarcentury's installation guidelines and stringent health and safety standards.
Suzanna Lashford, Head of UK Commercial Sales at Solarcentury, said: "We applaud JD Williams for taking a long-term view of its energy needs and demonstrating a genuine commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. The system gives JD Williams a stable source of cheap energy for the next 30 years, reducing reliance on costly grid energy. The money it will save on its energy bills can be re-invested in the company - and the solar installation is also a savvy use of roof space that would otherwise be unused."
JD Williams' rooftop solar system is an example of how solar can dramatically change an old industrial building, - a former textile mill - into an innovative clean power station. JD Williams now joins other major retailers, IKEA, Apple and Google that have installed solar. By taking control of their energy needs, these companies are also reducing their energy bills and limiting their environmental impact.
Sam Leigh, Group Facilities and Engineering Manager at JD Williams, said: "The solar installation is part of a range of environmental initiatives that are being instigated as part of N Brown Group's carbon reduction plan. We believe that being a profitable business does not have to be at the expense of the environment. The solar panels will help us to reduce our carbon emissions and demonstrates to our customers that we're genuinely committed to limiting the environmental impact of our operations.
Working with Solarcentury was smooth "“ their experience of installing on flat roofs was clear right from the outset, with the design, construction and commissioning of the system all executed efficiently, with minimal disruption to daily operations."
Now the system is connected, Solarcentury will manage the O&M, ensuring that the system generates as expected.
