Solar success for UPM Shotton

Project Description:

A new solar park, covering 220 acres, was constructed by British Solar Renewables in conjunction with WeLink Group, a specialised renewable energy company. Using 250,000 of the
latest photo-voltaic panels and cutting edge conversion technology, the plant can produce on average 64,646 MWh/year. A direct link into the UPM Shotton site means that the paper mill can now operate on 100% renewable energy during daylight hours. Working closely with the local power distribution company, UPM’s existing power export connection was used to facilitate the project.

Project Purpose:

Renewable energy has played an important role in the responsibility success story for UPM Shotton paper mill over the past decade. The transition to use 100% renewable energy started in 2006 with the start-up of our biomass combined heat power plant (CHP). With a focus on energy efficiency, the mill has continued to reduce its use of fossil-based electricity from the national grid. The solar park development means the mill will reduce purchases of power to just under half the current level.

The further addition of UPM Shotton’s second steam turbine, utilising excess steam from its CHP, in December 2016, means the mill is on track to meet its energy efficiency targets and significantly contribute to UPM Group’s 2030 sustainability targets.

Project Evaluation:

Since the successful start-up of the project UPM Shotton has operated on 100% green energy during the day, together with 60% during the night.
It was delivered exactly on time and met a deadline set by the UK power regulator.

Andrew Bronnert

Head of Energy & Operational Support for UPM Shotton

This latest development means we now have one of the most sophisticated energy provision systems in manufacturing and adds to our strong environmental credentials, says Andrew Bronnert, Head of Energy & Operational Support for UPM Shotton. It is a great model for working in partnership with third party developers to achieve mutually beneficial goals.
It takes a significant step forward towards us achieving our decarbonisation goals.

 

Main features:

CO2 Emissions saved (tCO2) 

12,000 tonnes per year CO2 savings for the mill.

100% green energy use by the mill during daylight hours

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