Cramlington: Hundreds of solar panels to be installed at factory
George Smith, which makes upholstered furniture, has partnered with AR Power to install 392 solar panels at its Cramlington factory.
The panels will make up a 176.4 kWp system and are expected to produce 167,355 kWh of energy per year.
The company says, this will help it reduce its CO2e emissions by 37,713 kg annually.
The project is part of George Smith’s ‘commitment to achieving a net-zero future’ and will help the company reduce its resource consumption.
Stephen Armstrong, head of commercial at AR Power, said: “By installing this solar panel system, George Smith is demonstrating its dedication to a greener future while ensuring long-term energy resilience.”
The company has also implemented several energy-saving measures across its Cramlington factory.
These include replacing hundreds of fluorescent tube lights with energy-efficient LED alternatives, upgrading wood machinery to modern, energy-efficient models, and encouraging rigorous shutdown procedures for computers, lights, and machinery at the end of each working day.
George Smith says it is also committed to responsible sourcing and uses materials such as FSC-certified timber and byproducts of other industries, including responsibly sourced feathers, horsehair, and coir, in its designs to ensure minimal environmental impact.
The company also has strong recycling initiatives for paper, cardboard, and plastics and is continuously improving its segregation and waste management practices.
Jim Athey, UK managing director of George Smith, said: “Sustainability is a core part of our vision today and for the future.
“We are constantly exploring ways to make our manufacturing processes more environmentally friendly, from the materials we source to the energy we use.
“Partnering with AR Power enables us to take a significant step forward in reducing our carbon footprint and embracing sustainable innovation.
“This project not only aligns with our commitment to sustainability but also sets a precedent for how traditional craftsmanship can integrate cutting-edge renewable technology.”