Centreco supported James Hargreaves (Plumbers Merchants) Ltd—the UK’s largest independent suppliers of plumbing, heating, and bathroom materials—by installing a tailored, on-site solar energy system at its national headquarters, helping them take a major step towards long-term sustainability and energy independence.

---

Delivering sustainable energy for James Hargreaves (Plumbers Merchants) Ltd

A trusted name in the UK’s plumbing, heating and bathroom materials market, the 102-year-old company operates a nationwide network of 73 branches. The directors were looking to take control of rising energy costs, step forward with their sustainability ambitions and futureproof their head office in terms of energy strategy.

Background

Faced with increasing pressure from rising electricity costs and price volatility in the UK energy market, the business also wanted to reduce its carbon footprint, aligning with its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable growth.

Previously relying entirely on the national grid for its electricity, the company sought a cleaner, more cost-effective way to power its operations and reduce grid dependency. Other key project requirements included a relatively short payback period, minimal disruption to daily operations during installation and a technically capable partner to deliver the project seamlessly, end-to-end.

Centreco was selected based on its professional approach. James Hargreaves (Plumbers Merchants) Ltd, Low Carbon Technical Heating Sales Manager, Scott Wright, explains:

“Right from initial engagement, Centreco stood out. Their proposal documentation was comprehensive and transparent, providing everything we needed to make an informed decision. Of course, we conducted our own due diligence too, including reviewing case studies and client testimonials.

They’ve completed hundreds of similar successful installations across the UK, giving us confidence that we were in safe hands. What impressed us was their professionalism throughout the process, especially the proactive communication and their ability to understand our operational and financial needs.”

Our Solution

Following a comprehensive consultation, Centreco worked closely with the team at James Hargreaves to understand their operational energy use, business priorities and site-specific requirements at the Burnley head office.

We designed a bespoke commercial solar PV system to offset a significant proportion of the site’s annual electricity usage, and one capable of measurable energy and carbon savings. The total system size amounted to 206.25 kW, comprising 497 Longi 415W Panels and six Solis S5 inverters, specified across four of the site’s buildings—the showroom, mill, warehouse, and workshop.

The installation was carefully scheduled to avoid disruption to the company’s key operational hours, ensuring critical deliveries and day-to-day business were maintained without interruption.

The Centreco team managed the entire process from start to finish, including system design and planning, DNO applications, structural survey and reports and planning application through to installation, commissioning, DNO witness test and handover. Centreco then ensured that James Hargreaves staff had training on both the use of the system and full access to the free of charge solar monitoring system.

The Results

Since switching to on-site solar generation, James Hargreaves has seen an immediate and noticeable reduction in its energy costs, directly making a positive impact on the company’s operational bottom line. In the first quarter alone, the system generated almost £6,000 in total savings. Apart from mitigating exposure to future energy price volatility, the installation has improved cost control and enhanced long-term business resilience.

By generating renewable energy at source, the company has also taken a bold step forward in strengthening its sustainability credentials, positively influencing stakeholder perceptions, especially in the eyes of customers and staff.

Feedback from employees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing pride in the company’s proactive commitment to sustainability. Customers have responded favourably as well, particularly those who prioritise partnerships with environmentally responsible companies.

“Centreco impressed us. With their structured project management approach, regular and clear communication and flexibility in scheduling, disruption was minimal.

For us, solar was the only viable renewable energy solution. But it wasn’t just about reducing our energy costs; it was about building business resilience and enhancing brand trust.

The results have been exactly as promised – some great savings to our bottom line and an innovative project that genuinely supports our long-term sustainability strategy.”Scott Wright
Low Carbon Technical Heating Sales Manager
James Hargreaves (Plumbers Merchants) Ltd

Discover how we can help you transition to lower energy costs and achieve your sustainability goals.

Speak to a solar energy expert today, call 01257 208 943, email enquiries@centreco.co.uk or visit centreco.co.uk.