At Texfelt, an innovative manufacturer of SpringBond eco-friendly underlay and mattress fillings based in Bradford, the commitment to environmental responsibility is entrenched in their corporate ethos. Conscious of their environmental impact and eager to offset their carbon emissions, Texfelt recognised the potential of renewable energy as both a green solution and a way to drastically reduce their high energy costs. This motivated the company to invest in solar PV to create a more sustainable business model while simultaneously cutting expenses that come with traditional energy consumption.
The journey towards harnessing solar power began with Texfelt’s collaboration with us at Harvest Green Developments, where we were instrumental in executing the first phase of the solar PV project. Covering half of the rooftop at Texfelt’s Bradford manufacturing facility, the construction was completed in April 2021, showcasing their readiness to embrace renewable energy. The team engaged in meticulous planning and a seamless implementation process that ensured the installation not only met energy needs but also aligned with Texfelt’s sustainability goals. The integration of solar energy represented a significant step in their commitment to environmental leadership.
A renewable energy story of two halves
By February 2023, Texfelt took their initiatives further, completing a second phase of renewable energy integration. This expansion resulted in an additional 258.72kW of solar capacity, effectively covering the remaining half of the rooftop and bringing the total system size to an impressive 528.60kW. Together, the entire solar array is projected to generate approximately 378.47MWh of free, clean electricity each year, which is a remarkable contribution to the facility’s energy requirements. As of August 2024, the system has successfully produced 1.11GWh of green energy, allowing Texfelt to power a significant portion of their operations sustainably. The initiative has also led to a saving of 216,000kg of carbon emissions, equivalent to planting 13,043 trees, which is an impressive metric that underscores their commitment to a greener planet.
Optimised to make a significant difference
The technology utilised in the solar installations has been carefully selected for efficiency and reliability. Phase one included 692 Tier 1 solar panels from Q Cells, while phase two incorporated 616 Tier 1 solar panels from Trina Solar. Although the solar modules are varied due to availability at the time of construction, this diversity is an asset, because it perfectly demonstrates the compatibility of different modules when installed together. The use of module-level optimised inverters from SolarEdge ensures that performance and efficiency remain uncompromised, allowing for remote tracking and monitoring of individual solar panels all year round. This advanced technology enables both Texfelt and ourselves to swiftly identify and address any faults that may occur, facilitating uninterrupted operation of the system.
To ensure a secure installation to the roof, a reliable mounting kit from K2 Systems, designed specifically for trapezoidal sheet profiles such as the one at Texfelt, was used across both phases. This superior mounting solution guarantees a robust and secure connection to the roof without compromising the integrity of the existing roofing sheets. The system has undergone extensive testing and is recognised within the solar industry for its high-quality standards.
Furthermore, monitoring equipment has been installed that allows precise measurement of energy generation, operational consumption, and any excess energy exported to the national grid. Exporting surplus electricity provides Texfelt with a secondary revenue stream, as there are numerous lucrative export tariffs available to incentivise the repurposing of unused electricity back to the grid. This aspect not only supports their financial sustainability but also significantly contributes to the larger goal of creating a greener energy landscape. The ability to generate income from energy that would otherwise go to waste optimises the overall effectiveness of the renewable energy initiative, complementing Texfelt’s broader sustainability strategy.
Texfelt’s plans an even greener future
Texfelt’s commitment to renewable energy does not end with their rooftop installation. The company is actively exploring additional projects for its other buildings and considering complementing their existing efforts with battery storage solutions, which would allow even greater control over their energy usage and independence. This forward-thinking approach is a testament to Texfelt’s desire to lead in sustainable manufacturing practices and to encourage energy independency.
In summary, Texfelt’s expansion into renewable energy reflects an unwavering dedication to reducing their environmental footprint while simultaneously saving on energy costs. By successfully collaborating with us and investing in cutting-edge technology, they have established a strong foundation for a sustainable future.
Client Feedback
”Harvest Green Developments have completed two significant solar installations at our manufacturing site with a combined capacity in excess of 500kwp. Their knowledge and expertise in this field, combined with specifying the highest quality componentry made the buying and specifying phase, installation and grid connection a seamless journey. After two years of use, the installation is performing to the forecast predictions laid out in the original feasibility study.
I would have no hesitation in recommending HGD to anyone considering capital projects in this area.”
Michael Walsh
Is your business ready to take a sustainable leap with renewable energy?
We welcome all business owners eager to explore their green potential and follow in Texfelt’s carbon-reduced footsteps to get in touch with us to discuss how renewable energy can transform your operations and contribute to a greener future.
