The Alexir Partnership is installing a new solar PV system on the southern part of the main factory roof. Work will commence on Monday 30th November.
Alexir has taken the decision to install solar this year for a number of reasons. Firstly it makes us a “greener” packaging producer as the system will generate around 180kw of power which we will be able to utilise. By doing this, and combined with the subsidy we receive from the power company, we will reduce our annual electricity bill by around 20%. The system should pay for itself in full within 5 years and given that the cells have a guaranteed lifespan of 25 years, it means not only are we a greener packaging producer but we will be making considerable savings on our electricity bills over the next quarter of a century. For these reasons the installation of solar panels is an excellent investment for the future of Alexir.
The system will feature around 690 panels which will cover approximately 50% of the roof on the right hand side of the building, as this is the southerly-facing area. The system, however, has been designed to keep the skylights clear and will not affect the daylight into the factory. It has also been designed to fit around the roof venting system so from a working point of view there should be no difference inside the factory except for maybe a slight improvement to the insulation during the winter months.
