Customer: Wilson Salt
Industry: Salt Processor
System Size: 300 kW
Number of Panels: 535
Number of Inverters: 3
Installation Year: 2024
Level of Self-Sufficiency Post Solarfix Installation: 25%
Carbon Savings Annually: 28,412kg
Carbon Saved within Panel Warranty: 700,000kg
Background
Wilson Salt, with roots tracing back to 1922, has long been a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s salt processing industry. The company, founded by Robert Wilson, grew from a modest flour, cereal, and sugar merchant business into a major player in the salt industry. Over the years, the company expanded its operations to include a state-of-the-art animal feed mill and a major salt processing facility. Today, Wilson Salt continues to uphold the legacy of quality and reliability established by Robert Wilson, while also embracing modern technology and sustainability practices.
System Details
In 2024, Wilson Salt took a significant step towards sustainability by partnering with Solarfix to install a 300 kW solar system. This system, comprising 535 high-efficiency solar panels and three robust inverters, is designed to power a significant portion of the company’s operations. The installation was carried out with minimal disruption to the company’s daily activities, ensuring a seamless transition to renewable energy.
Energy & Carbon Savings
The installation of this 300 kW solar system has led to significant environmental benefits. Annually, the system is expected to save approximately 28,412 kg of carbon emissions, contributing to Wilson Salt's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Over the 25-year warranty period of the solar panels, the total carbon savings are projected to reach 700,000 kg. Additionally, the system has increased Wilson Salt’s self-sufficiency by 25%, reducing their dependence on the grid and lowering energy costs. The project highlights the importance of choosing the right “solar company near me”, and Wilson Salt is already seeing the benefits of their investment in cheap solar panels and sustainable energy solutions.
Health & Safety
At Solarfix, health and safety are paramount throughout all stages of the installation process. For this project, we adhered to rigorous health and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of both our team and Wilson Salt employees.
From the outset, we conducted thorough planning and risk assessments. The Solarfix team walked the Wilson Salt management through key safety procedures and outlined the designated safe zones where work could be carried out, ensuring both our workers and the client’s staff were aware of restricted areas. We reviewed Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) and provided comprehensive documentation, including staff training records. All personnel had to sign in and out daily to ensure accountability, especially in the event of emergencies like a fire.
We established a clearly marked and cornered-off workspace, ensuring that only Solarfix personnel had access, as there was significant vehicle movement, including forklifts, on-site. A daily health and safety toolbox talk was conducted to remind the team of all safety protocols, with checklists signed off each day. This included the inspection of edge protection around the roof and skylight covers to ensure no one risked falling through.
Paul, our on-site supervisor, conducted daily walkarounds to inspect tools, barriers, and signage, ensuring that restricted areas were clearly marked with "No Entry" signs, and that designated walkways were followed. To carry out roof work safely, we utilized scissor lifts, cherry pickers, and harnesses anchored to secure points. Additionally, hot work permits and permits to work were reviewed and renewed regularly. We coordinated closely with Wilson Salt management, keeping them informed of progress and any changes required for safe and efficient work.
This proactive approach to health and safety not only ensured a smooth installation but also reinforced our commitment to safe working practices for every project.
Future Integration
Wilson Salt has future-proofed its operations with this solar installation. The company now has the potential to integrate solar power battery solutions in the future, further enhancing their energy independence, to store excess energy generated during peak production periods. Additionally, there is potential to install a My Energi Zappi car charger for electric vehicle charging, or a My Energi immersion heater controller to utilize surplus solar energy for heating water, thereby reducing overall energy costs.
Ongoing Partnership
The partnership between Wilson Salt and Solarfix is built on a foundation of trust and mutual respect. Wilson Salt selected Solarfix based on their reputation as reliable solar panel suppliers with expertise in Solar panels Northern Ireland. The relationship continues to grow, with discussions already underway for potential future expansions, including solar power battery solutions. Wilson Salt is also exploring opportunities to work with Solarfix in recommending Solar panels companies near me to their business network, further promoting the benefits of solar energy.
Conclusion
The solar installation at Wilson Salt represents a successful collaboration between two industry leaders committed to sustainability and innovation. With significant carbon savings, reduced energy costs, and the potential for future upgrades, this installation marks a major milestone in Wilson Salt’s journey towards a greener future. If you would like to see what we can do for your business, do not hesitate to contact our office on 0800 246 5198 or complete our contact form here.