The 18-month project involved the installation of 3,500 solar roof panels covering 8,397 square metres. The panels will produce 1,560,000kWh of power annually, the equivalent of 40% of the yearly electricity usage at the Grannagh site.
Energy generated by the new solar facility will be enough to power 210 homes for an entire year and is expected to deliver a return on investment in 4.5 years – depending on future electivity unit price rates.
Optimal conditions
According to Dawn Meats, the Grannagh site was deemed suitable for the use of solar panels due its southern location, which offered optimal sunlight exposure. Available roof space also meant the project did not require additional planning permission.
Similar solar facilities are planned to be installed at other Dawn Meat sites in the UK and Ireland.
Commenting on the investment, engineering director and leader on the solar panel project Tom Hyland said: “We are delighted to announce that our solar panels project is now live at the Grannagh site in Co. Waterford.
“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.”
Sustainability investments
Dawn Meats has made a string of investments in more sustainable production in recent years. Since 2020, the company has sourced 100% renewable energy to power its sites.
In November 2023, the manufacturer announced it had saved 885 tonnes of plastic as part of a major plastic reduction plan across its retail packaging. Dawn meats is working towards on-site renewable energy generation across all sites as part of its ‘Plan Four Zero’ sustainability strategy.
Last year (May) saw the Irish meat processor secure a multi-million pound export contract to South Korea to supply foodservice, retail and manufacturing customers across the country, the culmination of six years of negotiations by the manufacturer.
Meanwhile, Britvic has invested more than £1m into sustainability improvements at its Rugby site.
