Gressingham Foods, a luxury poultry supplier renowned for its sustainable practices, is taking a significant step towards decarbonisation with a 3.27MW solar project. This initiative, in partnership with Centrica Business Solutions, is set to provide over a quarter of the company’s energy needs, marking a pivotal moment in the food industry’s shift towards renewable energy.
The project, commencing construction in March, will see 5,100 solar panels installed at Gressingham’s main processing site in Suffolk. Once operational by September, the solar farm will generate enough power for 111 homes and cut more than 670 tonnes of carbon in its first year alone. This move aligns with Gressingham’s commitment to reduce energy and water usage by 5% per year, accelerating its sustainability goals and setting a new benchmark for the sector.
The solar farm will be built on Gressingham’s own land, utilising low-grade agricultural space that would otherwise go unused. This strategic use of land underscores the company’s innovative approach to sustainability, demonstrating that renewable energy projects can coexist with agricultural activities.
Fiona Wilson, Senior Group Risk Advisor at Gressingham Foods, emphasised the strategic importance of the solar installation. “The solar installation provides a substantial portion of our energy needs, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources,” she said. Looking ahead, Gressingham plans to introduce electric vehicles and chargers, further strengthening its eco credentials.
The partnership with Centrica Business Solutions is facilitated through a 12-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Under this agreement, Gressingham will buy the electricity generated with no upfront cost, while Centrica Business Solutions owns and maintains the system. This arrangement ensures peak performance and allows Gressingham to focus on its core operations while benefiting from clean energy.
Jean-Yves Cherruault, Head of Business Development at Centrica Business Solutions, highlighted the broader implications of the Gressingham partnership. “Investing in solar isn’t just a commitment to sustainability – it’s a strategic move for long-term cost savings,” he said. By harnessing renewable energy, businesses can significantly reduce their energy bills, strengthen their energy resilience, and lower their carbon emissions.
Gressingham’s move to lock in cheaper, cleaner power is a testament to the growing trend of businesses seeking to reduce their reliance on volatile energy markets. This shift towards renewable energy not only strengthens the company’s eco credentials but also positions it as a leader in sustainable food production.
The solar project is expected to have far-reaching implications for the food industry and beyond. As more companies follow Gressingham’s lead, the demand for renewable energy solutions is likely to increase, driving innovation and investment in the sector. This trend could lead to a more sustainable and resilient energy landscape, benefiting both businesses and the environment.
The partnership between Gressingham Foods and Centrica Business Solutions serves as a model for other businesses looking to decarbonise their operations. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of renewable energy projects, this collaboration is set to inspire similar initiatives across various industries. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, such bold steps towards sustainability are not just commendable but essential.
