Rapala reels in green energy savings

Starting life as Dynamite Baits in the early 2000’s, Rapala is one of Europe’s largest manufacturers and distributors of fishing bait. The company now also distributes group brands such as Storm lures and Sufix lines, as well as more recently distributing Okuma from the factory located in Cotgrave, Nottingham.

Aiming to become carbon neutral, the installation of solar PV is one of several sustainability practices at Rapala. The company has converted their manufacturing facility and offices to the most efficient LED lighting, which uses timers and sensors, as well as using recyclable sustainable packaging and 100% biodiesel on site. All the company’s on-site waste is recycled (with none being sent to landfill) and organic waste goes to an anaerobic digester to produce electricity.

Our dedicated team completed the design and installation for the new energy system, which included 356 solar panels on the factory and office roofs. The team worked for two weeks behind the scenes to install the commercial solar PV system while Rapala’s Cotgrave-based site remained fully operational.

Managing Director of Geo Green Power, James Cunningham stated that: “It’s an absolute pleasure to work with companies like Rapala who are so proactive on environmental issues. Clearly there’s a big cost saving to be made by installing solar PV and we understand when the financial benefits are the main motivation. However, when we do get the chance to support a company with such passion about becoming carbon neutral, and delivering sustainability throughout their business, it makes switching their system on and transitioning them to green energy that little bit more satisfying.”

Energy costs at Rapala VMC have dropped by more than £50,000 per year as investment in a solar PV energy system means around 25% of their energy now comes from the sun with the remainder coming from renewable sources.

Results from their first full year of operation show that the solar PV system is generating 120kW at peak and produces approximately 106,000kWh of electricity annually. This means the Rapala site has reduced their carbon emissions by more than 37 tonnes since the solar PV system started operating, the equivalent of taking 7 cars off the road. With 50-100% of their total energy generated entirely emissions-free during the summer months, Rapala expects to see a full return on their investment within four years.

If you’re looking to bring a renewable energy solution to your business, contact us today!