Premier Modular has ramped up efforts to deliver on its net zero by 2035 promise with a large-scale solar panel installation and trials for the electrification of its forklift truck fleet.
The new measures have been planned to minimise our modular construction company’s dependency on the grid and drive down its generation of carbon emissions.
An annual yield of 1,779 kWh is expected to be produced from 1,700m² of solar panels that will be installed on two of the company’s factory buildings, covering an area the size of six and a half tennis courts. Any remaining energy required to power the facility will be renewable and exported from the grid.
The introduction of the solar panels has been scheduled for completion in the final quarter of 2023, ahead of their use in 2024.
Supporting this undertaking, Premier Modular has a contract with the national grid to obtain 100 per cent of its power exclusively from renewable sources.
The company has also begun trials for the electrification of its fleet of forklift trucks, in collaboration with three suppliers. The testing will assess everything from the trucks’ performance, durability and comfort to lifting and charging abilities.
Should the trials be successful, the initiative could save a lifetime total of 275.64tCO2e, with more saved depending on activity levels.
Such efforts have been officially recognised by external assessment consultant, Sustainable Advantage, who awarded Premier Modular an “ESG Excellent” rating after the company achieved a score of 70 per cent across all categories, significantly above the 30 to 40 per cent average.
The rating contributed to the company’s success at the Hull Live Business Awards, where it won the Environmental and Sustainability Award.
To heighten its green credentials further, Premier Modular recently appointed a dedicated ESG Administrator, Elise Benton, who will facilitate the company’s execution of its ESG agenda across all business areas.
Annelee Roscoe, ESG and HR Director at Premier Modular, said: “As a company we are committed to achieving net zero and delivering these benefits to our customers and local communities through our ESG agenda. It’s exciting to see the solar panels being installed which, along with the electric forklift truck trials, will enhance our efforts to reach net zero by 2035 and further reduce our emissions.
“ESG is a core pillar of the business, and it is important for us not only to offer a net zero service but also operate and live as a net zero company. Our commitment is highlighted in our recent “Excellent” score received from Sustainable Advantage.
“We’ve made great steps so far, but when it comes to ESG and the road to net zero, there is always more that can be done. I can’t wait to see what we’re going achieve in future years as we get closer to 2035.” For more information on Premier Modular’s ESG strategy, explore the company’s sustainable commitments.
