In Ballymoney, one of Northern Ireland’s best-known butchers, Apperley’s, has taken a big step toward sustainability. Their family-run business is known for quality, tradition and community and now they’re reducing running costs and carbon emissions with a solar installation designed and delivered by Encom Energy.
With 158 JA Solar 445W panels, a Solis 50kW inverter and a system spread across three different roof types (slate, trapezoidal and flat), the project showcases how solar can be tailored to complex sites. Thanks to part funding through Invest NI, Apperley’s will save £7,373 in their first year alone, while generating clean energy for years to come.
Why are solar panels a great investment for food businesses in Northern Ireland?
Food businesses like butchers, bakeries and delis rely heavily on refrigeration, lighting and machinery all of which run constantly. With energy costs rising, electricity can be one of the biggest ongoing expenses.
Installing solar panels helps offset this by generating renewable power directly on-site. During daylight hours, a large proportion of the electricity a business needs can come from its own roof lowering bills, reducing exposure to price hikes and a leading tosmaller carbon footprint.
At Encom, we specialise in designing commercial solar systems that match your energy usage, site layout and future goals, whether you run a single premises or a multi-site operation like Apperley’s.
Can solar panels really make a difference in Northern Ireland’s climate?
Absolutely. Even on cloudy days, modern solar panels generate electricity from daylight rather than direct sunlight. Northern Ireland receives plenty of daylight hours across the year, allowing well-designed systems like Apperley’s to deliver strong performance throughout all seasons.
At Encom, our design team uses advanced solar modelling tools to calculate the best possible output for each site. This ensures your business gets reliable, year-round savings and maximum return on investment.
How do Invest NI grants help reduce upfront costs?
Government and local business support schemes, such as Invest NI, can help part-fund renewable energy projects that improve efficiency and sustainability. These grants reduce the initial outlay and shorten the payback period, making solar more accessible for local businesses.
Our commercial team assists clients through every stage, from site surveys and design to grant support and installation, helping you secure funding opportunities that make financial sense.
What challenges come with installing solar on complex roof types?
For Apperley’s, the installation involved three different roof surfaces, slate, trapezoidal and flat. Each required a unique mounting system to ensure safety, durability and maximum energy capture.
Our experienced engineers are trained to handle complex commercial projects like this, ensuring a seamless fit regardless of building age or structure. From traditional roofs to modern industrial units, we make solar work wherever it’s needed.
What results can businesses expect from a solar system like this?
In just the first year, Apperley’s Butchers are projected to save over £7,300, with ongoing savings year after year as electricity prices rise. Beyond cost reduction, they’re also enhancing their brand’s sustainability, a key factor for today’s customers who value local businesses committed to greener practices.
By generating their own clean energy, Apperley’s now enjoy greater energy independence while continuing to serve the community that’s supported them for generations.
Thinking about going solar for your business?
If your business depends on consistent power use, whether it’s food production, retail or manufacturing, solar can make a real difference to your bottom line.
At Encom Energy, we’ve helped businesses across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland reduce costs, cut carbon and future-proof their operations with bespoke solar systems.
Thinking of going solar? Contact us today!
⚡️ ENCOM ENERGY
UK 📞 028 9538 0910 💻 www.encomenergy.co.uk
ROI 📞 01 575 9805 💻 www.encomenergy.ie