'A proactive and forward-thinking approach to sustainability': Northern Ireland blind manufacturer goes green with major on-site solar energy installation
Bloc Blinds has installed a 156kW rooftop solar system in partnership with B4B Renewables, cutting reliance on grid electricity by around 40% and strengthening its long-term sustainability goals
Magherafelt-based Bloc Blinds has marked a significant milestone in its sustainability journey with the successful installation of a new 156kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system across its production and office facilities.
Delivered in partnership with renewable energy specialists B4B Renewables, the investment in solar is expected to reduce electricity usage from external sources by approximately 40%, with an estimated energy payback period of approximately three and a half years.
Completed in just five weeks the installation, which includes 304 solar panels on the factory roof and a further 49 panels on the office building, all work together to harness clean, renewable energy on site.
The system consisting of 165kW of solar panels connected to 116kW inverters, is already delivering measurable environmental benefits, having reduced Bloc Blinds’ reliance on grid-supplied non-renewable energy by approximately 35 per cent to date. This marks an important step toward a more resilient, low-carbon energy mix and directly supports the company’s long-term commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
Vinny Kennedy, quality assurance manager at Bloc Blinds, said the project reflects the company’s broader sustainability ambitions: “This solar installation is a meaningful step forward for Bloc Blinds. It allows us to significantly reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy while supporting a more sustainable and resilient operation.
"As a growing manufacturing business, it’s important that we take responsibility for our environmental impact, and this project demonstrates our commitment to doing just that.”
Alongside the solar PV system, Bloc Blinds has also introduced an electric vehicle charging point at its site, supporting greener commuting options for employees and visitors and further reinforcing its environmental objectives.
Planning for the project took place over a 12-month period, with on-site installation completed in just two weeks.
Mark Fraser, commercial director at B4B Renewables, said the project highlights the role businesses can play in the transition to clean energy: “Bloc Blinds has taken a proactive and forward-thinking approach to sustainability. This project demonstrates how commercial solar can deliver real environmental impact while strengthening long-term energy resilience. We’re proud to have partnered with Bloc on a system that will support their operations and carbon reduction goals for years to come.”