Tag Archives: solar

Business Expansion, Mid Wales

HDM Solar opens new Port Talbot site with Stephen Kinnock MP supporting growth in green employment

HDM Solar, one of the UK’s fastest-growing suppliers of renewable energy products, officially opened its new branch at Baglan Energy Park, Port Talbot, on Friday, July 18 — marking a major step forward in the town’s transition to a greener, more sustainable economy.

The launch event brought together local businesses, dignitaries, and members of the public to celebrate the company’s arrival in the region. Among those attending were Stephen Kinnock MP for Aberafan Maesteg, representatives from Neath Port Talbot Council, and Mr. Philip Hunkin DL, representing the Lord-Lieutenant of West Glamorgan, along with local contractors and renewable energy professionals.

The new 17,500 sq ft premises, including a 6,000 sq ft bonded storage facility, will support around 10 new local jobs and serve trade customers across South Wales. The Port Talbot site is part of HDM Solar’s £10.2 million national expansion plan to develop 60 branches across the UK.

Crucially, Neath Port Talbot Council has helped fund the extension to the facility and is actively supporting HDM Solar’s South Wales launch. Their support aligns with wider efforts to generate investment and create future-ready industries in the face of the expected TATA Steel redundancies.

Stephen Kinnock MP for Aberafan Maesteg said:

“It was a pleasure to attend the official opening of HDM Solar’s new branch in Port Talbot and to welcome their significant investment in our community. This state-of-the-art facility is a testament to HDM Solar’s ambition, innovation, and belief in the potential of our town.

“Not only will this development create skilled jobs in the growing green energy sector, but it will also boost our local economy and support Port Talbot’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future. It’s a clear signal that our town is ready to lead in the green energy revolution.

“We’re truly delighted that HDM Solar has chosen to locate here. Their presence marks an exciting new chapter for Port Talbot, and we look forward to the opportunities, the jobs, and the green future this partnership will bring. I wish the entire team every success as they embark on this journey.”

The Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr Steve Hunt, said:

“We’re proud to support HDM Solar’s investment in Port Talbot and welcome their commitment to creating quality green jobs in this area. The council is determined to help build a cleaner, more resilient economy, and this partnership is a great example of what can be achieved when businesses and local authorities work together.”

Adam Firth, Group CEO of HDM Solar, added:

“This opening is about more than expanding our footprint — it’s about investing in people and place. With the backing of Neath Port Talbot Council and the enthusiasm of the local business community, we’re confident this branch will thrive and play a key role in powering the green economy in South Wales.”

HDM Solar has earned a national reputation as “The Installer’s Wholesaler”, offering technical support, tailored solar and EV solutions, and delivery direct to site. The Port Talbot team will work closely with installers, businesses and trade customers to ensure a seamless, high-quality service at every stage.

In addition to its wholesale operations, HDM Solar is part of a wider group that includes HDM Energies, a sister company offering innovative commercial solar solutions. Through its Energy For All scheme, HDM Energies helps businesses access solar power with no upfront costs, installing and maintaining systems while offering electricity at significantly reduced, fixed rates. This initiative enables businesses to cut energy costs and carbon emissions without capital investment, supporting the UK’s transition to a cleaner energy future.

Green Energy, News from Wales

HDM Solar expands to Port Talbot with new branch, driving green growth and creating local jobs

HDM Solar, one of the UK’s fastest-growing renewable energy product suppliers, will open a new branch in Port Talbot this July. The expansion will create around 10 new local jobs and support the region’s transition towards a greener, more sustainable economy.

Located at Unit 21, Baglan Energy Park, the new branch forms part of HDM Solar’s ambitious £10.2 million investment to establish a nationwide network of 60 sites. The 17,500 sq ft premises will include a 6,000 sq ft bonded storage facility, currently under construction ahead of the July opening. With its head office in Hull, HDM Solar has recently opened new branches in Bournemouth and Basildon, and the addition of Port Talbot further strengthens the company’s presence in Wales and the West.

HDM Solar supplies solar power systems and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. The business serves a wide range of trade customers and businesses, offering tailored solutions, technical support, and delivery direct to site.

The company’s arrival comes at a crucial time for Port Talbot, which is facing the devastating prospect of job losses due to the planned closure of TATA Steel’s blast furnaces. HDM Solar’s investment will provide new opportunities and inject confidence into the local economy, with a focus on green jobs and renewable infrastructure.

Callum Emery, Manager of HDM Solar’s Port Talbot branch, said:

“We’re excited to be launching our Port Talbot branch this summer. This area has a proud industrial legacy and enormous potential to lead in the green energy transition. We look forward to working closely with local installers, businesses and communities to deliver reliable, high-quality renewable energy solutions.”

Adam Firth, Group CEO of HDM Solar, added:

“Our expansion into Port Talbot is about more than just opening a branch – it’s about investing in communities, supporting the shift to renewable energy, and creating sustainable jobs where they’re needed most. We’re proud to be part of a green future for Port Talbot and excited to build long-term partnerships with local businesses and installers.”

With a commitment to quality products, excellent service, and strong local partnerships, HDM Solar has earned a reputation as “The Installer’s Wholesaler”. Its knowledgeable team supports trade customers from consultation and design through to supply and delivery – ensuring a seamless experience at every stage.

An official Open Day is planned to mark the branch opening on July 18. In attendance will be a number of local dignitaries, including Stephen Kinnock MP for Aberafan Maesteg. Local businesses, installers, and members of the public are invited to register their interest and attend. To register your interest in the Open Day, or for more information, email events@hdmsolar.co.uk.

In addition to its wholesale operations, HDM Solar is part of a wider group that includes HDM Energies, a sister company offering innovative commercial solar solutions. Through its Energy For All scheme, HDM Energies helps businesses access solar power with no upfront costs, installing and maintaining systems while offering electricity at significantly reduced, fixed rates. This initiative enables businesses to cut energy costs and carbon emissions without capital investment, supporting the UK’s transition to a cleaner energy future.

Business, Renewable Energy News

Thermal earth expands with new facilities and cutting-edge renewable energy project

Thermal Earth, a leading provider of renewable energy and heat pump technology, is expanding into new premises at Hendre Industrial Estate, Ammanford, creating jobs and strengthening its position in the UK’s growing renewable energy sector—thanks to groundbreaking technology that harnesses run-off water from old mines as a renewable heat source.

Previously, the premises was left vacant due to spiraling energy costs. Now Thermal Earth is transforming the space with a combination of solar thermal, solar PV, and battery storage systems, alongside innovative technology that harnesses run-off water from old mines as a heating source—likely to be the first of its kind in the UK.

This ongoing project involves capturing 14°C runoff water from an abandoned mine, managed by the Coal Authority, to serve as a sustainable heat source. The new heating system will not only reduce energy costs but also demonstrate how sustainable solutions can breathe new life into existing buildings.

With a strong track record in heat pumps and wider renewable solutions, Thermal Earth is transforming energy challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth. The new site will support increasing demand for heat pump installations and serve as a training hub, equipping the next generation with specialist skills in renewable heating, partnering with local construction companies and apprenticeship providers like Cyfle Building Skills.

Fern Church, Marketing Manager at Thermal Earth, said:

“We’re proud to bring this building back into use with cutting-edge renewable technology. By applying our expertise to our own operations, we’re demonstrating how businesses can reduce energy costs and move towards a more sustainable future.

“This expansion is also an indication of the growing success and ambition of our company. It allows us to create jobs, develop new skills, and continue driving innovation in the sector. We’re excited to serve our clients and the local community with a larger premises and workforce—this is an exciting time for Thermal Earth.”

Thermal Earth has built a strong reputation for its expertise in renewable energy solutions. Its commitment goes beyond innovation, offering a diverse range of air source and ground source heat pumps, along with solar thermal, solar PV, and battery storage systems to help businesses and homeowners reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.

News

Solar panel expert touring UK to help homeowners after surge in demand for his services

Solar panel expert touring UK to help homeowners after surge in demand for his services

A Solar Panel expert is touring the UK helping clients after a surge in demand for his services.

Callun Purnell of Pigeon Solar Panels has been across the UK in recent months as the demands for his soar 

He has helped out clients across the south west along with London, Sheffield, Cambridge, Buckinghamshire and the North East.

Callun recently celebrated 12 years as a solar panel installation and maintenance expert and using the very best state-of-the-art nanotechnology service to help clients.

He has a 5-star clean sweep Google rating for his Pigeon Solar Panels business. 

Callun, a father of 2 from Bristol, and now based in Weston-super-Mare, said: “It has been a tremendous few months and it is clear there is an expanding demand for all things solar.

“Solar energy is a tremendous boost to the environment – it is cheap clean and sustainable.”

Callun first trained in the installation of solar panels then decided to branch out with the aim of becoming a one-stop-shop for everything in the solar installation and maintenance industry.

His unique solar panel maintenance business is celebrating an excellent track record of success in multiple areas across the industry after launching only a year ago. 

Callun’s business has a strong track record of helping people with their solar panels, preventing pigeons and other bird pests from nesting under solar panels.

They also do panel removal, professional solar cleaning and are ISCA qualified, roof clearing with biocide treatment, gutter clearance, repairs and long term protection and maintenance. 

They use high-quality galvanised steel wire mesh to guard solar panels. With no job too big or small and are IRATA rope access qualified meaning most jobs can be completed without scaffold whilst still adhering to health and safety guidelines. 

Their team of experts will permanently remove feral pigeons or any other vermin from under their solar panels. 

A free no-obligation can be found by clicking callun@pigeonsolarpanels.co.uk via www.pigeonsolarpanels.co.uk

Bristol, Energy, Home Improvements, News, South West

Bristol-based solar expert on a mission to safely remove feral pigeons and other pests causing costly damage to people’s solar panels 

Callun Purnell, age 33, a father of two from Bristol, has a 5-star clean sweep Google rating of 5 for his Pigeon Solar Panels Ltd business based in North Somerset.

He is helping to safely remove hidden pests which are causing fire hazards, potential spread of diseases and a danger for residents and their neighbours under solar panels.

Callun has been excelling in the solar industry since entering it 12 years ago.

He covers everything solar related Solar related but the business is specialised in the maintenance, upkeep, efficiency and protection of the panels. 

He safely removes vermin pests including pigeons and other animals that cause noise, disturbance and costly damage.

They can cause damage to the equipment under the solar panels with a pricey consequence for home owners that progressively and rapidly gets worse if not sorted.

Callun said: “Most people don’t realise the hidden menace of pests becoming increasingly attracted into nesting under their solar panels. 

“But unfortunately this is not an ideal location for the pests and can end up becoming a fire hazard, not to mention the various diseases pigeon guano can cause to humans and also the decreased efficiency of the solar panels resulting in less energy yield sometimes up too 30%. 

“Birds can get caught and tangled in the components and additionally their guano contains acidic property’s which can start to corrode through the insulation of the cabling on the roof which can cause huge cost and problems.

“We carefully and legally extract them and their nests then restore sanitation with biocide which can deal with potential bird mites that were in the nest.”

Callun’s business has a strong track record of helping people with their solar panels, preventing pigeons and other pests from nesting under the solar panels.

They also do panel removal, professional solar cleaning and are ISCA qualified, roof clearing with biocide treatment, gutter clearance, repairs and long term protection and maintenance. 

They use high-quality galvanised steel wire mesh to guard solar panels. With no job too big or small and are IRATA rope access qualified meaning most jobs can be completed without scaffold whilst still adhering to health and safety guidelines. 

Their team of experts will permanently remove feral pigeons or any other vermin from under their solar panels. 

A free no-obligation can be found by clicking callun@pigeonsolarpanels.co.uk via www.pigeonsolarpanels.co.uk

Energy, News

A Brighter Future Ahead: Kurt J. Lesker saves over £25,000 per year by installing Solar PV

Kurt J. Lesker Company® (KJLC®), designer and manufacturer of vacuum technology, is due to save £25,687.20 in energy costs per year thanks to the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels with a combined capacity of 100.04 kWp on a factory site in Hastings. 

Having worked with Kurt J. Lesker since 2016, Advantage Utilities has enabled the company to pursue more favourable energy and gas contracts, simultaneously assisting them to get scope 1 and 2 emissions certified. 

In June 2023, Advantage Utilities then facilitated a large solar PV installation on one of Kurt J. Lesker’s factories in Hastings, enabling annual savings of £25,687.50. Estimated savings throughout the 25-year lifetime of the system amount to £513,265, based on energy costs of 25p/kWh, bringing the lifetime cost of electricity (LCoE) down to 5p/kWh. 

Kurt J. Lesker’s innovative approach reflects a sea change currently taking place within the manufacturing industry; nearly half of UK manufacturers surveyed by Make UK revealed they see the transition to net-zero as an opportunity. This is reflected in the 6.7% yearly increase in solar PV installations between June 2022 and June 2023.

Commenting on the recent installation, Simon Mansbridge, Managing Director at Kurt J. Lesker Company, said: “We’re incredibly pleased with the results of our recent installation. We’ve made energy savings of 85,624 kWh per year, meaning we now produce a third of our on-site energy needs at one of our sites in Hastings, with potential exports back to the grid also enabling energy savings. Advantage Utilities’ collaborative and respectful approach enabled us to deepen our relationship, having previously only focused on energy contracts.”

Dr. James Crosby-Wrigley, Head of Sustainability at Advantage Utilities. adds: “Kurt J. Lesker’s installation is a prime example of what’s possible through the latest solar PV technology – now one of the cheapest and greenest solutions for businesses. The reduction in their carbon footprint will be dramatic, with a carbon benefit relative to UK standard grid consumption of 20,409kg/20.5 tonnes of CO2 in the first year. To use another metric, that’s the US forest equivalent of 90 acres. Better still, the installation on the Hastings site will bring their factory’s energy bills down by 30%, an impressive result for Kurt J. Lesker.”

For more details on this project, visit the Advantage Utilities website here.