Ultimate Products has installed solar panels on the roof of Manor Mill, the Group’s Grade II listed head office building in Oldham, Greater Manchester. The initiative is part of a wider focus by Ultimate Products on environmental sustainability, achieving net zero targets and mitigating the effects of surging global energy prices.
In total, 1,150 panels have been installed, covering approximately 85% of Manor Mill’s roof. It is anticipated that the panels will start generating energy later this month and, once at full capacity, are expected to produce 40% of Manor Mill’s energy requirements. As a result, the expected payback period for the solar panels is approximately three years.
“Manor Mill’s new solar panels are a prime example of Ultimate Products’ constant search for ways to reduce its impact on the environment. We are confident that they will also prove to be a great investment, helping us to save money on energy bills.” States Jill Easterbrook, non-executive director and chair of Ultimate Products’ ESG Committee.
Jill also reflects: “I am particularly delighted that they could be installed with the help of a local Oldham-based firm, whose stellar work has helped to preserve Oldham’s architectural heritage while ensuring our head office meets the needs of the 21st century. While we are pleased with the progress of our environmental initiatives so far, we know there is a lot more for us to do in this area, and we look forward to setting out a more comprehensive ESG strategy later this year.”
Ultimate Products is also assessing the feasibility of installing solar panels on the roof of Heron Mill, the Group’s 240,000 square foot warehousing facility, which is also located in Oldham.
The Group’s wider approach to environmental sustainability is focused on the ‘four Rs’, ie Remove , Replace, Reduce and Rebalance.
Top: Members of Ultimate Product’s environmental committee, Michael Gizauskas, operations coordinator, Rachel Harrison, buyer and Sophie Longmire, marketing assistant in front of the solar panels on the roof of Manor Mill.
