Following the successful installation of a rooftop solar PV system at the Peterborough brewery, Oakham Ales is poised to enhance its sustainability efforts. This remarkable project was executed by solar developer Electron Green.
The brewery has introduced a new beer, named Sun City. This innovative 3.7% blonde ale is crafted with Nelson Sauvin and Nectaron hops sourced from New Zealand, and it will be available on cask starting in August.
“This is a huge step in making Oakham Ales more sustainable,” stated former head brewer Mark Tetlow, who oversaw the project before his retirement.
“We’re delighted to welcome the Electron Green team to celebrate the completion of the installation by helping us brew Sun City – our first Solar Blonde.”
Oakham Ales, referred to Electron Green by its energy consultancy partner CUB UK Ltd, had faced challenges in adopting solar power due to its aging roof structure.
However, Electron Green addressed this issue effectively by delivering a comprehensive steel overclad roof and solar system at no cost to Oakham Ales. Under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), Electron Green will own and manage the system while supplying the brewery with discounted, fixed-rate solar electricity.
The 458.85 kWp solar array, covering 2,084 square meters of the enhanced roof, comprises over 1,000 photovoltaic panels. This installation is projected to decrease Oakham Ales’ reliance on grid electricity by 15%, resulting in first-year savings of nearly £11,000. Furthermore, the system will mitigate more than 2,200 tonnes of carbon emissions throughout its lifespan.
“Providing a free solar system with ongoing management to Oakham Ales has allowed it to cut its carbon footprint and energy costs in one glorious swoop,” remarked Daniel Green, CEO and co-founder of Electron Green.
“We’re here to provide businesses with flexibility in how they manage and pay for electricity. As energy demands are expected to rise by 50% over the next decade, businesses need confidence in their energy supply and greater control over their costs.”
New head brewer Ed Sharman expressed his appreciation for Electron Green’s efforts.
“They managed the whole project with no disruption to our brewing schedule over the spring,” Sharman noted.
“It’s great that our business has significantly upgraded its environmental credentials without any capital expenditure, and we’re all looking forward to raising a glass of Sun City in celebration.”