Northern Ireland based Tobermore, which manufactures concrete paving blocks and slabs, has installed 204 Suntech monocrystalline solar panels and now expects to generate electricity equivalent to its use.
The solar panels, which have been installed on the roof of the main factory, can produce 50KW of zero carbon electricity at peak times, according to Tobermore managing director David Henderson.
Overall, he expects a yield of 38,950.90kWhr per annum, with an approximate carbon reduction of 21,000kg a year.
"One of the ways we have already demonstrated our commitment to renewable energy is by reusing grey water through our sophisticated rain harvesting system," comments Henderson.
"Solar energy was naturally our next step to continue to reduce our carbon footprint, and maintain our Carbon Trust certification."
For Tobermore, electricity onsite is now entirely self-generated, with any excess being sent back to the grid.
The firm also receives government issued ROCs (Renewables Obligation Certificates) at the rate of £30-£40 per R megawatt hour.
