Another landmark solar PV installation by Solarcrown Commercial

Powering Parfetts – Solar PV Installation at Birmingham Depot

Parfetts, one of the UK’s largest independent employee-owned wholesalers, has been making strides towards sustainability with the help of Solarcrown Commercial (SCC). With a long-term goal of installing 2MW of solar energy across its eight depots, Parfetts is investing in renewable energy to reduce carbon emissions, lower costs and enhance operational efficiency.

The latest milestone in this project was the installation of a 400kWp rooftop Solar PV system at Parfetts’ Birmingham depot. This installation brings the total solar capacity across Parfetts’ sites to over 1.6MW, helping to cut energy costs and support their environmental commitment.

Overcoming Challenges – Weather, Logistics & Safety

Installing rooftop Solar PV in the UK always comes with challenges, but the Birmingham depot project faced some of the worst weather conditions seen in over a decade. Storms, high winds, freezing temperatures, and heavy snow put our installation team to the test.

Unpredictable storms and freezing temperatures prevented access to the roof, requiring a flexible and reactive approach to scheduling.

Strong winds ruled out the use of crane lifts, forcing SCC’s operational teams to adapt their lifting and movement strategies.

Despite these obstacles, SCC completed the project safely, on time, and within budget.

A Collaborative Approach to Sustainability

Parfetts operates eight cash & carry depots across the UK, serving over 1,000 independent retailers. Their goal is to cut energy costs and reduce environmental impact while supporting their network of independent stores. SCC worked closely with Parfetts to ensure the Birmingham installation was completed with minimal disruption to daily operations.

By installing Solar PV systems, Parfetts has already generated 1.9MWp of renewable energy, reducing 350 tonnes of carbon emissions—equivalent to planting 15,000 trees or powering 60 electric company vehicles.

Expanding Solar Across Parfetts’ Network

The Birmingham installation is just one part of a larger initiative. SCC has already completed successful Solar PV projects at Aintree, Anfield, Sheffield, and Stockport, with further installations planned for Somercotes and Middlesbrough.

Across the Parfetts network, the impact of solar energy is expected to grow:

5.6MWp of solar energy generation

£1.5 million in energy savings annually

700 tonnes of carbon emissions reduced (equivalent to planting 29,000 trees)

11,000 solar panels deployed

Solar PV For Wholesale & Retail

This partnership between Solarcrown Commercial and Parfetts is setting an example for sustainability in the wholesale and retail sectors. By investing in renewable energy solutions, Parfetts is demonstrating its commitment to both cost efficiency and environmental responsibility.

With more depots set to receive Solar PV systems, Parfetts continues to lead the way in creating a more sustainable future for its business, its independent retailers, and the wider community.