FOOD & BEVERAGE


T


hat’s according to Fusion 360, a UK-wide installer of solar panel systems on large structures including the manufacturers and distributors of food and drugs. A birds-eye view of any


commercial estate in the UK


increasingly reveals hundreds of solar panels on the roofs of factories and warehouses, helping to produce the energy they need. And, with confl ict in the Middle East causing


global uncertainty over energy supplies, and the UK experiencing its sixth sunniest summer ever, even more companies are looking to invest in solar energy according to Fusion 360. “One of the strongest benefi ts of installing


solar panels is the reduced reliance on mainstream energy. Add to that the increased sustainability and lower costs and it’s perhaps clear why we’re seeing growing interest from businesses helping to keep Brits fed and healthy” says Joanne Skinner, Commercial Director of Fusion 360. Due to the widespread use of refrigeration


within processing and storage facilities, as well as the energy consumed by refrigerated trailers, the food and drink sector can be highly energy-dependent. International instability caused initially by


the pandemic and then by wars in Europe and Asia, has encouraged many UK food and drink companies to strengthen their supply chains and take measures to reduce risks from fl uctuating energy costs. And, with record hot weather across the


UK this summer, the opportunity to harness energy from the sun has been a big driver for food and drink manufacturers adopting solar energy. “From food factories to packing plants and


distribution warehouses, many food and drink related companies have expansive roofs which lend themselves well to solar energy. With continuous advances in PV technology, every new generation of solar panels is delivering greater power, longer life and a faster return- on-investment” states Joanne. Fusion 360 specialises in electrical design


and installation, including new-building electrics, communications networking and installing solar PV panels on both new and existing buildings. The fi rm recently completed a major project


for Aldi’s regional distribution centre in Bathgate, Scotland, where they replaced over 4,000 solar panels with the latest technology to provide self-generated and lower-cost electricity. As well as generating sustainable power


for use on site, solar PV systems can charge onsite battery storage for later use and, in some cases, create income by providing surplus electricity back to the grid. “Businesses tell us they’re looking to gain


greater control over their energy use and make costs both lower and more predictable. With continuing infl ationary pressure across the food sector, investing in onsite solar is one practical way businesses can reduce their


20


SUMMER SURGE MADE SOLAR ENERGY INVALUABLE FOR FOOD AND PHARMACEUTICALS,


SAY EXPERTS By Fusion 360 Rooftop solar has proven highly effective for factories, warehouses and distribution centres of food, drink and pharmaceuticals during summer 2026


exposure to volatile electricity prices” adds Joanne Another industry that Fusion 360 believe


has experienced signifi cant growth in solar adoption is pharmaceuticals. An often energy-intensive sector,


pharmaceutical and laboratory facilities have been populating their roof space with solar panels to produce energy and help reduce operational costs and carbon emissions. The sector’s high energy needs, coupled


with volatile energy costs, has made solar PV an attractive proposition to help fuel their daytime energy needs. “Like food and drink, the past few years


have been a challenge for pharmaceutical companies. Solar enables them to generate their own electricity; reducing operating costs and building greater resilience against energy price fl uctuations “, says Joanne. 2026 looks set to be the warmest year on


record for the UK, with provisional statistics from the Met Offi ce ranking this summer as


SEPTEMBER 2026 | FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS Fusion 360 www.fusion360group.co.uk


the sixth sunniest on record for Britain. “This new abundance of sunshine


really adds to the case for solar PV as an increasingly consistent source of energy shining down on our factories and warehouses. It’s little wonder so many food, drink and drugs companies are taking advantage” concludes Joanne.


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