Andover business cuts carbon emissions with council-backed solar project
An Andover business is set to reduce its energy bills and carbon emissions after receiving funding from Test Valley Borough Council to install solar panels at its premises.
Re-Design UK Ltd, based at Towergate Business Park on Weyhill Road, received a £5,000 grant towards the cost of installing solar panels. The project was completed by fellow Andover business Solar Prospects Ltd.
The new solar system is expected to save around four tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions each year while also reducing their running costs. Re-Design has also installed battery storage and plans to export surplus electricity back to the National Grid.
Established more than 40 years ago, Re-Design creates signage and graphics for shop fronts, offices, warehouses and vehicles. The family company is run by brothers Mark and Chris Douglas and Mark’s daughter Leah also works there.
Councillor Alison Johnston, portfolio holder for Climate Emergency and Countryside, said: "It's fantastic to see local businesses taking practical steps to reduce their carbon emissions and become more energy efficient. Grants like this help businesses invest in renewable energy while supporting the borough's wider ambition to reduce carbon emissions. It's particularly pleasing that two Andover businesses have worked together to deliver a project that will bring lasting environmental and financial benefits."
Mark Douglas, Director of Re-Design UK Ltd, said: "It's great to have solar installed here to help with our energy costs. We have already seen big savings since installation and are absolutely delighted with the results. Solar Prospects are located upstairs and were the perfect partners for the project. The new system will help us reduce our environmental impact while making our business more resilient in the long term."
Solar business grants are funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus.
