In an ambitious 18-month project, Dawn Meats has successfully installed 3,500 solar roof panels over an impressive area of 8,397 square meters at its Grannagh facility. This solar installation is set to generate approximately 1,560,000 kWh of renewable energy annually, fulfilling around 40% of the site’s yearly electricity requirements.
The energy produced by this new solar facility is sufficient to power 210 homes for an entire year. Furthermore, the project is projected to yield a return on investment within 4.5 years, contingent on future fluctuations in electricity unit pricing.
Optimal Conditions for Solar Energy
According to Dawn Meats, the Grannagh site’s southern orientation allows for optimal sunlight exposure, making it an ideal location for solar panel installation. Additionally, the ample available roof space facilitated the project without the need for extra planning permissions.
Encouraged by this success, the company plans to expand similar solar facilities across other Dawn Meats locations in the UK and Ireland.
Tom Hyland, engineering director and lead on the solar panel initiative, commented, “We are delighted to announce that our solar panels project is now live at the Grannagh site in Co. Waterford.” He emphasized, “This marks a significant milestone in our journey to use sustainable energy and reduce our carbon footprint. We plan to replicate the success of this project across our sites in Ireland and the UK in the near future.”
Commitment to Sustainability
Dawn Meats has consistently invested in sustainable production practices in recent years. Since 2020, the company has been committed to sourcing 100% renewable energy to power its operational sites.
In November 2023, the manufacturer proudly announced it had successfully saved 885 tonnes of plastic through an extensive reduction plan in its retail packaging. This initiative is part of Dawn Meats’ ‘Plan Four Zero’ sustainability strategy, which aims for on-site renewable energy generation across all facilities.
In a notable achievement, last May, the Irish meat processor secured a multi-million-pound export contract to South Korea, thereby supplying foodservice, retail, and manufacturing customers throughout the country, marking the culmination of six years of negotiations.
In related news, Britvic has also invested over £1 million in sustainability improvements at its Rugby site, underscoring a growing trend in the industry toward environmental responsibility.