'Making the switch...is pretty cool': Northern Ireland packaging firm powers ahead with 100% locally generated renewable energy

Newry independent packaging supplier Hub Packaging has announced a strategic partnership with renewable energy provider 3T Power that will see its facilities powered by 100% locally generated renewable electricity.

The move represents a significant milestone in Hub Packaging’s sustainability journey, reducing the company’s Scope 2 emissions to zero while supporting its long-term commitment to achieving net-zero emissions.

Employing more than 50 people across the Island of Ireland and Scotland, Hub Packaging supplies packaging solutions to customers across the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, healthcare, industrial and retail sectors throughout the UK and Ireland.

The transition to renewable electricity means Hub Packaging’s facilities, warehousing operations, office accommodation and electric vehicle charging infrastructure are now powered entirely by renewable energy generated locally across Northern Ireland.

The strategic move forms part of a wider programme of sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing operational emissions while maintaining the production reliability and service standards customers expect from Hub Packaging.

Julian Coldrick, director of Sustainability at Hub Packaging, said: “Two critical factors compelled Hub Packaging to choose 3T Power as our next energy partner. Firstly, that 3T Power are supplying fully traceable 100% renewable energy, and secondly, their commitment to providing renewable energy on a large scale within Northern Ireland. Making the switch to 3T Power reduced our Scope 2 emissions to zero, which is pretty cool.”

The packaging sector is under increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions as manufacturers respond to evolving customer expectations, supply chain sustainability requirements and wider ESG commitments. For Hub Packaging, the latest investment demonstrates how environmental responsibility can complement operational excellence.

Reliable, resilient energy remains fundamental to maintaining efficient manufacturing operations, supporting continuous production and delivering consistently high-quality packaging products.

The partnership with 3T Power also reflects a shared commitment to supporting Northern Ireland’s transition towards a low-carbon economy by investing in local businesses and renewable infrastructure. By choosing an independent Northern Ireland energy provider, Hub

Packaging is helping strengthen regional renewable energy capacity while supporting local economic growth.

Julian added: "It means a lot to work with a supplier with shared values, and it’s very important to our customers and stakeholders. Our customer base expects the very best practice from us as their packaging provider of choice.”

John-Francis Collins, sales manager at 3T Power, welcomed the partnership: “Businesses across Northern Ireland are increasingly looking for practical ways to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising operational performance. We’re delighted to be supporting Hub Packaging on its sustainability journey by supplying 100% locally generated renewable electricity and working alongside a business that shares our commitment to responsible growth and long-term environmental stewardship.”

As customers increasingly evaluate suppliers on their environmental performance, Hub Packaging believes investments such as these will strengthen its position as a preferred partner for organisations seeking sustainable, resilient supply chains.

The renewable electricity initiative builds on the company’s broader ESG strategy, which includes ongoing investment in people & infrastructure, supporting continuous improvements in environmental performance across the business.

Looking ahead, Hub Packaging will continue investing in new technologies, operational efficiencies and strategic partnerships that contribute towards its long-term sustainability ambitions.