Irish energy company Activ8 Energies has made a strategic move into the UK market with the acquisition of solar panel installer Low Carbon Energy (LCE). The 100% buyout of the Burnley-based firm aligns with Activ8’s ambitious plans to double its turnover and installed solar capacity in the coming years. This expansion comes on the heels of Activ8’s recent £3 million solar farm project at John Lennon Airport in Liverpool, which is set to provide 25% of the airport’s electricity upon completion next month.
LCE, with an impressive client list that includes BMW, Porsche, Co-op, Wickes, and the NHS, has already established a strong foothold in the UK, having delivered over 60MW of installed solar capacity across more than 300 sites nationwide. The acquisition positions Activ8 to capitalize on LCE’s extensive experience and client base, further solidifying its presence in the UK’s commercial infrastructure sector.
Ciarán Marron, CEO of Activ8 Solar Energies, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “This acquisition marks a transformative moment for Activ8 as we accelerate our UK growth ambitions. By combining the strengths of Activ8 and Low Carbon Energy, we’re better equipped than ever to deliver innovative, large-scale energy solutions for clients seeking sustainable energy security.”
In the near term, LCE will continue to operate under its existing brand, ensuring continuity for its current customers while leveraging Activ8’s resources and scale. This strategic move is likely to intensify competition in the UK’s renewable energy sector, pushing other players to innovate and expand their offerings. The acquisition also underscores the growing trend of cross-border investments in the renewable energy sector, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions.
As Activ8 integrates LCE’s capabilities, it will be interesting to see how this merger influences the company’s project pipeline and market strategy. The combined entity could potentially set new benchmarks for solar energy installations in the UK, driving further adoption of renewable energy solutions across commercial and industrial sectors. This development also highlights the importance of strategic partnerships and acquisitions in achieving rapid growth and market penetration in the renewable energy landscape.