A couple’s craft beer business was at risk of going flat as energy prices rocketed sending operating costs through the roof.
“There are myriad challenges for brewing right now with the cost of energy and raw material prices, and we would have been struggling to keep our heads above water.”
But with the support of Business Energy Scotland, an interest-free loan and a good, healthy dose of Scottish sunshine, Stewart Brewing in Loanhead can raise a glass to a healthy and sustainable future.
The company that has a five-day-a-week brewing operation, supplying their craft beers across Edinburgh and central Scotland, as well as through an online shop, has installed an array of solar PV panels across its roof and also on the front of its south-facing building.
Steve Stewart, who started the business in 2004 with his wife Jo, said:
“Without the help we received with the survey and the loan, our prospects wouldn’t have been good. Never in 19 years have things been like this.
“There are myriad challenges for brewing right now with the cost of energy and raw material prices, and we would have been struggling to keep our heads above water.”
Stewart Brewery, which has a 45-strong workforce, is invested in supporting the environment and minimising its carbon footprint, so solar power was always a consideration.
When energy costs shot up from around £66,000 a year to an incredible £300,000, Steve knew he needed to make changes and came to us for advice.
A survey of the premises, which also include a bar and pizza kitchen, was carried out by one of our specialist consultants, who recommended the use of solar power, as well as introducing an air source heat pump (ASHP) to provide underfloor heating and hot water.
The £100,000 interest-free Scottish Government SME loan made installation of the solar PV possible, with a payback period of just over five years, taking into account the income generated from the system.
Financially, the business is not in a position to proceed with the ASHP, but it forms part of Steve’s future plans.
“Our energy-saving journey hasn’t finished yet. We are also looking into battery storage as well as the other suggestions in the survey. Although a five-year payback was suggested, I think it will be shorter than that considering how much electricity was costing us.
“Having the solar panels on the front of the building is a good talking point with customers and helps them to see our commitment to the environment.
“I am absolutely supportive of the loan and the help we received from Business Energy Scotland and would recommend it to any other business in a flash.
“We all need as much help as we can get at the moment.”
Help for your business
Business Energy Scotland is funded by the Scottish Government to provide free, impartial support and access to funding to help small and medium-sized enterprises save energy, carbon and money
Whether you are just starting out on your energy-saving journey and need some pointers or are looking for expertise and funding to support your current plans, our team of experienced business advisors and energy-saving consultants are here to help. Get in touch today.
Please note, due to the very high number of applications for solar PV projects, the Scottish Government’s SME Loan Scheme is not currently accepting new applications for solar PV projects.
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