We have recently embarked on an exciting new initiative to harness the power of solar energy, marking a significant stride towards sustainability within our operations. Our decision to adopt solar energy was carefully considered, and we ultimately selected Energy Gain Ltd as our provider due to their professionalism and expert guidance throughout the process.

When considering the choice between solar panels and wind turbines, our proximity to an airport was a key factor in the decision-making process. Although wind power would have been advantageous given our location near an estuary with consistent winds, regulatory constraints prohibited the installation of wind turbines.

Ensuring the structural integrity of our building was paramount for the installation of the solar project. Recognising that portions of our roof were unsuitable for solar panel installation due to their composition of soft, flexible aluminium, we maximised the remaining roof space to accommodate panels capable of withstanding adverse weather conditions such as wind and snow.

Our newly installed system comprises 1,155 panels. The installation was completed in six weeks, and it is projected to meet approximately 40% of our factory's total energy consumption. The remainder of the power used on site is also 100% backed by renewable sources.

As our General Manager, Jim Kirk, stated, “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to invest in this technology that enables us to produce all our products, as well as those of our customers, using renewable energy sources. This initiative not only aligns with our commitment to sustainability but also underscores our dedication to delivering environmentally-conscious solutions to the market. We look forward to the positive impact this investment will have on our operations, our community, and the planet as a whole.”

While this project represents a significant investment, we anticipate a payback period of just over two years, underscoring the economic viability of renewable energy solutions.

The whole team at DI has met this initiative with enthusiasm, recognising our commitment to sustainability as a positive step in our journey. Reflecting on the project, Richie Wright, our SHE Manager, commented, “Our commitment to being sustainable is evident. Using the power of the sun to provide electricity to our factory is a large step forward in reducing our own carbon footprint.”

Zero Waste, Maximum Impact

We understand that sustainability isn't just about energy—it's about waste, too. That's why we operate with a zero-waste policy, ensuring that every piece of waste material created during production is either recycled into new products or repurposed to generate energy. This commitment means that none of the waste generated at our factory ends up in landfill.

Leading the Way Forward

We are mapping our way for a more sustainable future across our manufacturing division. By integrating renewable energy, zero-waste practices, and eco-conscious material sourcing into our operations, we’re demonstrating that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand. Looking ahead, we are poised to reap the environmental and economic benefits of our investment in solar energy for years to come.