Exceedingly good energy: Mr Kipling turns to Solar Power

The maker of products such as Angel Slices, Cherry Bakewells and Battenberg cakes has completed a £2.1 million investment in solar energy.

Premier Foods’ Mr Kipling brand invested in a 2.2MW solar farm, featuring 3,500 Solar Panels at its Carlton Bakery, which is expected to be fully operational next month.

The Solar PV is expected to supply nearly three quarters of the site’s electricity needs at peak production, powering everything from mixers and packaging machinery to lighting and office equipment.

Carbon emissions are estimated to be reduced by 468 tonnes per year.

Nick Brown, ESG Director at Premier Foods, said: “Our Carlton Bakery was the largest purpose-build bakery in the world when it opened in the 1970s and it remains the biggest bakery in the UK. This investment ensures it’s part of a more sustainable future. By generating more of our energy needs on site, we’re not only reducing our carbon footprint but making our operations even more resilient.It’s also positive that the solar farm has the capability to potentially export electricity back into the local electricity grid, when we are producing more electricity than we need.

“This project is a key step in helping us deliver on our Enriching Life Plan commitments to cut emissions and reach net zero – delivering real environmental benefits for the local community and our business as a whole.”

The project is part of a wider programme of investment in Solar Energy across Premier Foods’ manufacturing sites, including a £500,000 system at its Stoke bakery and a further £500,000 project in Ashford.

Original Article: Energy Live News