One Thousand Solar Panels Closer to Going Carbon Neutral at The Parently Group HQ

Image shows the solar roof at David Luke Schoolwear

We’re 1,000 solar panels closer to achieving our long-term Impact pledge of being carbon-neutral at The Parently Group HQ thanks to Green Loan support from HSBC UK to reduce carbon emissions and cut costs.

We’ve utilised a six-figure funding package from HSBC UK to install 1,700 sq mtrs of ERS solar panels at our headquarters in central Manchester. As a result of the installation, we will have the capacity to generate a peak solar array of 295kw-h onsite, enabling a 25-tonne reduction in carbon emissions every year. Over a 25 year solar-lifespan, The Parently Group is expecting to save up to 3,600 tonnes in carbon emissions.

The funding provided by HSBC UK comes as part of a Green Loan, dedicated funding to support sustainability projects and help SMEs and mid-market companies achieve their green ambitions.

Kathryn Shuttleworth, Managing Director The Parently Group, said: “We’re delighted to see the completion of this project, the latest in a growing list of successful green initiatives across the business. These solar panels support our long-term sustainability targets, but the investment will also see financial returns, with the solar roof expected to pay for itself in cost savings after only seven to eight years.”

In April 2020, David Luke Schoolwear received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainability for manufacturing school uniforms out of recycled polyester yarn from plastic bottles.

Richard Beaumont, Relationship Director for HSBC UK, Corporate Banking, Greater Manchester, said: “This is the first Green Loan we have provided for a mid-sized enterprise in the North of England and we’re incredibly proud to be completing the deal with David Luke Schoolwear. The family-run business has proven its green credentials at the highest level and this investment in solar panels signals another positive move for the future.”

Robert King, Head of sustainability at HSBC UK, added: “The work being done on HSBC UK Green Loans across the country is innovative and an important part of our commitment to help business thrive in the transition to net zero. By supporting SMEs, mid-sized enterprises and large corporate organisations with dedicated sustainable funding, we can ensure the long term economic and environmental health of UK businesses.”