Knowles secures roof top solar

By Liza Helps Property Editor Logistics Matters

THE 3PL has partnered with renewable energy company Shawton Energy to install and manage the PV array which is set to achieve carbon savings of 135 tonnes per year.

In 2023, Shawton Energy went into co-ownership with investor Lazard Asset Management to drive the roll-out of fully funded solar photovoltaic (PV) projects for industrial and commercial clients across the UK.

Shawton Energy CEO Jamie Shaw said: “We have a deep understanding of solar within warehousing and food manufacturing sites and can provide tailored, innovative solutions for businesses committed to a greener future.

“Food manufacturers work hard to source and package food in a sustainable way, so it’s only natural that logistics firms want to provide their customers with sites that can run via clean, renewable energy.”

“Mounting pressure and expectation from retailers and consumers is also driving sustainable supply chain practices forward.”

In December 2023, 10 major grocery retailers – including Tesco, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, and Asda – partnered with Manufacture 2030 to help speed up supply chain decarbonisation.

“As more major supermarkets look to decrease their value chain emissions, and reduce their environmental footprint, Scope 3 Emissions will continue to become a bigger topic for food manufacturers and the sites where they operate.

“Working with businesses such as Knowles Logistics, demonstrates how, in partnership, Shawton can deliver large-scale solutions.”

The solar installation will contribute to Princes’ 2030GreenGoals initiative, which outlines the Group’s ambition to become a carbon neutral manufacturing business across its UK and international operations by 2030.

Knowles is also committed to ensuring its logistics operations are sustainable and progressing towards its target of Net Zero in Warehousing and Transport by 2030 and 2045, respectively.

Knowles Logistics managing director Alex Knowles, said: “At Knowles, we are well on the sustainability journey and are always looking for ways to enhance green energy production across our 2 million ft2 warehousing portfolio.

“Not only does this help us to significantly offset our environmental impact but enables our customers to benefit from the most sustainable supply chain solutions.

“Our recent partnership with Shawton Energy plays an important part in helping us achieve our sustainability goals.”