Sofidel starts new photovoltaic system at UK converting facility

Sofidel has brought a new photovoltaic system into operation at its Rothley Lodge converting facility in Leicester, United Kingdom, further advancing its energy transition strategy across European operations. The installation, located on the roof of the production building and covering approximately 6,130 square metres, is designed for direct on-site energy consumption without the use of storage systems such as batteries. This configuration aims to maximise operational efficiency while reducing system complexity. The plant is equipped with advanced solutions for production optimisation and fire safety.

During the initial operating phase – characterised by limited solar irradiation typical of Northern Europe – the system covered 11.68% of the site’s total electricity demand, corresponding to 13.45% of the electricity drawn from the grid. During the summer period, coverage is expected to reach approximately 19%.

“Also at Sofidel UK facility in Rothley Lodge, we continue to take action to reduce our carbon footprint. The results of the first operating period are encouraging, especially considering they were achieved during the coldest season and with lower levels of solar irradiation,” said Giuseppe Munari, Country Operations Manager for Sofidel in the United Kingdom. “This represents further confirmation of our investment strategy in renewable energy, driven by the conviction that reducing dependence on fossil fuels also means building a lasting competitive and industrial advantage.”

The UK project follows the recent commissioning of a biomass boiler at Sofidel’s Frouard facility in France. Together with an existing unit, the installation enables the site to cover up to 95% of its steam requirements through biomass energy.

The photovoltaic system forms part of Sofidel’s broader decarbonisation strategy, which includes a diversified energy mix adapted to local conditions. This approach combines the use of biomass in France and the United Kingdom, biomethane in France and Sweden, bio-syngas in Sweden, and photovoltaic installations in Romania, Italy and the United Kingdom.

Sustainability remains a central pillar of Sofidel’s development strategy, closely linked to innovation in production processes, products and logistics, supporting long-term growth while reducing the environmental impact of industrial operations.