The Encore Group, a major packaging supplier with a strong presence in the food packaging and e-commerce sector and also the largest manufacturer of printed envelopes in the UK, has taken a significant step toward reducing its environmental impact by partnering with AR Power.
Working with AR Power, The Encore Group has successfully installed a state-of-the-art SolarEdge solar PV system at one of their manufacturing facilities in the North of England. This initiative is part of The Encore Group’s broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, aiming to reduce Scope 2 emissions and decrease reliance on grid-supplied energy.
Project Background
The Encore Group operates four sites, including locations in Washington (Tyne and Wear), Peterlee (County Durham) and Dewsbury (Yorkshire). With a production schedule running 24/6 and a weekly production output of 50 million pieces across 3 sites, the energy demand is substantial. Recognising the need to drive and improve sustainability, The Encore Group sought to install solar power to lower their carbon footprint and energy costs.
Following a comprehensive tender process that involved multiple organisations, AR Power was awarded the contract. “The safety features were second to none, and AR Power came across as the most professional and efficient,” said Craig Allen, Sales Director at The Encore Group. “Their current customer portfolio and track record were impressive, and the entire tender process left us confident in our choice.”
Project Specifications
AR Power’s in-house team designed and installed a 505.94 kWp SolarEdge solar PV system comprising 1,234 panels spanning across three buildings. The system is expected to generate 440,649 kWh of energy annually, reducing The Encore Group’s carbon emissions by 91 tonnes per year. The SolarEdge technology was selected not only for its efficiency but also for its advanced fire safety features. The system includes optimisers on every two panels, allowing for precise performance measurement, and meets all RC62 requirements, including arc detection and emergency shutdown capabilities.
One of the key features of the SolarEdge system is its user-friendly monitoring platform, accessible through the SolarEdge app. The app allows The Encore Group to monitor the performance of each solar panel in real time, providing detailed insights into energy production, system health and overall efficiency. This transparency and control ensure that the system operates at its peak, delivering the expected environmental and financial benefits.
Additionally, the SolarEdge system’s high-efficiency design maximises energy yield, even in shaded conditions, ensuring consistent performance throughout the year. The integration of advanced fire safety features, such as automatic shutdown in case of an emergency, further highlights the system’s reliability and safety.
A key aspect of the project was to ensure that the installation would not disrupt The Encore Group’s ongoing production. Craig explained: “During the installation process, there was no disruption to production. The team on site was friendly and helpful, and it all ran smoothly. Looking at the SolarEdge app, in the first few months of installation, the data has been better than expected, and we are really pleased with the initial results.
“We would recommend AR Power to any business or organisation thinking of installing solar. There was very little requirement from our team as AR Power managed the project from the beginning through to completion. Both the quality and finish of the system is first class.”
Industry relevance
The partnership between The Encore Group and AR Power highlights the growing importance of sustainable energy solutions in the manufacturing industry. Through innovative technology and effective project management, AR Power has enabled The Encore Group to take a significant step toward its sustainability goals while ensuring uninterrupted production.
Furthermore, the reduced reliance on grid electricity not only lowers operating costs but also shields The Encore Group from energy price volatility, providing long-term financial stability.
Stephen Armstrong, Head of Commercial at AR Power, added: “It’s great to be supporting a large UK manufacturer with their carbon reduction initiatives. The SolarEdge system we installed is a perfect fit for The Encore Group’s needs, offering both efficiency, cost savings and safety.”
As one of the leading solar panel installers in the North East of England, AR Power specialises in designing and installing solar PV systems for businesses across the UK, using their own in-house teams.
