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Local manufacturer saves £400,000 through free solar installation

A Newcastle-under-Lyme manufacturer is set to save £400,000 on energy costs after signing a 25-year agreement that saw solar panels installed on its site at no upfront cost.

By contributor Priit Piip
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Agricultural feed producer ForFarmers has partnered with renewable energy company Two Blues Solar, which funded and installed a 165 kWp solar system at the site. The deal included roof repairs and ongoing maintenance, with Two Blues Solar selling the generated electricity back to ForFarmers at fixed below-market rates until 2050.

The 388-panel system is expected to generate approximately 146,000 kWh of clean energy annually, according to Two Blues Solar. The installation, which was completed in just eight weeks, is projected to reduce the site's carbon emissions by 33 tonnes per year, equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of 21 UK households.

The project, which included full roof repairs and solar PV system installation, was completed in just eight weeks
The project, which included full roof repairs and solar PV system installation, was completed in just eight weeks

"This installation delivers immediate cost benefits while supporting our sustainability goals," said Craig Rogers, Regional Operations Manager at ForFarmers. "The long-term agreement locks in fixed energy rates, offering certainty over our energy costs and protection against future market volatility."

Under its business model, Two Blues Solar specialises in solar installations for energy-intensive businesses, where projects typically cost upwards of £200,000 - a price point that puts solar out of reach for many mid-sized companies. The company covers all costs, allowing businesses to access cheaper renewable energy without having to touch their own capital.

"We handle everything from design and installation through to ongoing maintenance," said Daniel Levene, Co-founder of Two Blues Solar. "This allows businesses to focus on their operations while benefiting from lower energy costs."

Two Blues Solar has secured funding to deliver similar projects for up to 300 more businesses over the next five years. The company says its model can provide energy at rates up to 60% below traditional suppliers.

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