A Glasgow wholesaler is living up to its name with the addition of a new array of solar PV panels on its vast warehouse.
Greencity Wholefoods is on a green journey after calling on Business Energy Scotland for support to help it tackle the ever-growing energy bills.
“I’d definitely recommend Business Energy Scotland, especially if you own your own building. By making the move to solar panels, we will be able to reinvest more into the business.”
Scott Erwin, business development manager, said: “We are always trying to adapt and become greener. We want to be able to future-proof ourselves for future generations.”
The company, which started in Hillington 45 years ago, has been at its current home in Dennistoun since 1983.
Just over 10 years ago, a 10kWp solar PV array was added to the offices to help the business, which operates as a workers’ cooperative, become more energy efficient. More recently, Greencity approached us to support the switch to LED lights throughout the premises.
With rising fuel costs affecting the company’s profitability, Scott contacted Business Energy Scotland again to help investigate the feasibility of further solar panels on the warehouse.
“Bills have gone up five-fold in recent months. Profitability in an industry like ours is not massive to start with, so adding an extra £60,000 into the mix to cover energy costs negates our ability to reinvest and grow the business.”
A survey of the warehouse was carried out by one of our specialist consultants, and a detailed report with recommendations sent to the client.
It showed that Greencity could save more than £3,500 a year with an additional small amount of income generated through the Smart Export Guarantee from the use of solar PV panels. Switching to solar energy would also reduce carbon emissions by seven per cent, equivalent to 7,784 average car miles.
“While we have been able to put a lot of cash into reserves over the years to act as a buffer for times like now, it was still important for us to look for a way to save money and continue our green journey.
“I’d definitely recommend Business Energy Scotland, especially if you own your own building. By making the move to solar panels, we will be able to reinvest more into the business.”
Ylva Haglund, head of sustainability and engagement at the Scottish Wholesale Association, said: “The support offered by Business Energy Scotland to Greencity Wholefoods and other members of the Scottish Wholesale Association makes tackling rising energy costs, reducing your impact on the environment, and ultimately helping to future-proof your business an accessible, guided process.”
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