Sustainability & growth: Thirsk Tables' £100k solar panel investment further reduces carbon emissions

Established in 1994 in an area of North Yorkshire renowned for its long history of furniture manufacturing, Thirsk Tables is owned by Chris Blair and Jake Bailey.

This contract table manufacturer is committed to growing the business by offering high quality products at competitive prices and at a level of service that’s second to none. “Our focus is on producing high quality table-tops, table frames and bespoke furniture that not only looks stunning, but which stands the test of time in busy commercial environments,” Chris explains.

Central to the company’s ethos, however, is its sustainability and environmental credentials, and Chris proudly tells us that Thirsk Tables has been a carbon neutral company for the last six years, but not wishing to rest on their laurels, also believe in continuous improvement. The most recent example of this is the installation of 258 solar panels at the company’s premises, an investment totalling some £100,000. 

On this subject, Chris says: “Offsetting your carbon emissions is good, but reducing emissions is even better. Most of our carbon footprint comes from the 200,000Kwh (units) of electricity we use each year. Big woodworking machines use big electric motors.”

This significant investment, which equates to 258 solar panels, covers the roofs of five industrial units, which should generate 104,000Kwh of clean energy every year. “We won’t use all of it ourselves because in the evenings and at weekends, the power generated will go into the national grid, but it will provide us with about one third of the electricity required during working hours.”

With a lifespan of over 20 years, the solar panels will also reduce the impact of energy inflation and help keep Thirsk Tables competitive. Chris and Jake would also like to extend a big thank you to their electrician of many years, Alex Ward (G. W. & J. Ward Electrical Contractors & Renewable Energy Installers) and his team, for doing such a fantastic job of the install.

For more information on Thirsk Tables, see www.thirsktables.co.uk.