UK rural insurer NFU Mutual has installed a rooftop solar photovoltaic system at its Stratford-upon-Avon headquarters (pictured), making a significant move towards its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The 249.20 kWp rooftop system, designed and installed by renewable energy specialist Ineco Energy, features 560 bi-facial panels projected to generate nearly 200,000 kWh of renewable energy annually, covering about 20% of the building’s electricity consumption.
It will deliver energy at around 5p per kWh, resulting in both financial savings and a reduction of 45 tonnes of carbon emissions per year for NFU Mutual, which has been implementing energy-saving measures since 2021.
The insurer’s initiatives include upgrading heating and cooling systems and installing 36 electric vehicle charging stations across its offices. In 2023, these measures culminated in a 33% reduction in carbon emissions across NFU Mutual’s occupied office spaces, compared to 2019 levels.
Building on these earlier successes, NFU Mutual looked into solar energy as part of its strategy for long-term sustainability. With a lifespan exceeding 30 years, the new rooftop system will be monitored and maintained by Ineco Energy under a long-term service contract.
“At NFU Mutual, we take the environmental impact of our operations very seriously,” said facilities and ESG manager Ed Bannister. “Buildings are significant contributors to carbon emissions, accounting for approximately 40% in the UK. Therefore, ensuring energy efficiency across the built environment is crucial for reaching our net zero target.
“We have been fortunate to benefit from Ineco’s extensive experience in designing and building safe, reliable solar installations. The performance of the solar system at our head office has exceeded our expectations, and we are already exploring opportunities to install additional projects.”
Ineco Energy director Angus Rose commented: “It has been a pleasure to partner with the team at NFU Mutual. As insurance providers and their stakeholders increasingly turn to solar PV for significant energy cost savings and carbon reduction benefits, we are proud to demonstrate that solar is a safe, sustainable, and financially sound investment.”
What do you think about this story? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
