Member Article

North East merchant goes green

A North East builders merchant has introduced a number of energy saving measures as part of its continuing commitment to going green.

Thompson Building Centres has installed photovoltaic panels at its sites in Sunderland, South Shields and Durham, which will help to reduce the firm’s carbon dioxide emissions. It is also set to save Thompson £6000 a year in energy costs.

Thompson’s Operation Director, Brent Ganley said: “The installation of the PV systems is all part of our ongoing commitment to working in an economical, professional and environmentally friendly way.

“We are delighted that this installation is now complete and look forward to enjoying the benefits they bring both in terms of reducing our carbon footprint and saving money.”

This is just the latest in a series of measures undertaken by the company to reduce their carbon emissions. Last year they invested £400,000 in Volvo HGV wagons fitted with intelligent driving systems to monitor a range of factors including fuel consumption. The devices can also inform drivers about more energy efficient ways of motoring.

The new solar panels were installed by Sunderland-based specialists Sun Spirit. Head of Operations at Sun Spirit, David Kay believes that the project demonstrates the savings which can be made through installation.

He added: “ We are delighted to have worked with Thompson Building Centres on this installation of solar photovoltaic systems, both in terms of electricity savings to the customer and the reduction of CO2 emissions into the atmosphere.

“This project truly demonstrates just how effective solar photovoltaic systems are and the savings that commercial business and home owners can make by installing this product.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .