Customer: NearyNógs
Industry: Chocolate Manufacturers
System Size: 5.5 kW
Number of Panels: 21
Number of Inverters: 1
Installation Year: 2020
Level of Self-Sufficiency Post Solarfix Installation: 22.6%
Carbon Savings Annually: 1,160 kg
Carbon Saved within Panel Warranty: 29,000 kg
Background
Located on the picturesque Mourne Coast, the NearyNógs family-run chocolate factory has been crafting small-batch, fine-flavour chocolate since 2011 making it Northern Ireland's first bean-to-bar craft chocolate maker and the oldest in Ireland. The business was born out of a family's dedication to both their craft and their community, with a mission to produce chocolate that honours the farmers who grow their ethically sourced, sustainable cacao beans. NearyNógs supports the Rainforest Alliance and practices direct trade whenever possible, paying above-market value for cacao beans to ensure that farmers receive a living wage, which in turn supports the survival of the cacao industry.
NearyNógs has always been committed to sustainability, not just in their sourcing but also in their production. Choosing Solarfix for their solar power installation was an easy decision, as it not only further reduced their carbon emissions and contributed to environmental preservation but also aligned perfectly with their ethos of sustainability. Solarfix, as Northern Ireland’s trusted solar panel supplier, provided a comprehensive range of products and services that met NearyNógs' specific energy needs. With expert consultation, professional installation of their solar system and ongoing support, Solarfix ensured that NearyNógs could seamlessly integrate solar energy into their operations. This commitment to quality and customer satisfaction mirrors NearyNógs' own, making the partnership a natural fit.
System Details
In 2020, NearyNógs partnered with us to install a 5.5 kW solar system at their factory. The system, which includes 21 solar panels and a single 3.68 kW SolarEdge inverter, was designed to optimize energy production even in challenging conditions. Thanks to SolarEdge’s innovative technology, each panel operates independently, meaning that if one panel is shaded or otherwise compromised, the rest continue to function at full capacity—a significant advantage over traditional string systems.
Given that NearyNógs operates primarily during daylight hours when the sun is up, and energy demand is aligned with solar production, the decision was made to install the system without home storage batteries. This approach ensures that they maximize their solar power usage during business hours while covering over 20% of their annual electricity needs.
NearyNógs opted for a My Energi Eddi Immersion Heater Controller, which further reduces their energy bills by efficiently using excess solar generation to heat water in their tank. This addition not only maximizes the use of their solar power but also enhances their overall energy efficiency, further supporting their sustainability goals.
Energy & Carbon Savings
Since the installation, NearyNógs has achieved a 22.6% level of self-sufficiency, significantly reducing their reliance on grid electricity. The system is projected to save 67.5 kg of carbon emissions over the lifetime of the panels, making it a key component of the company’s broader sustainability strategy.
Future Integration
Looking forward, NearyNógs could consider further integration of renewable technologies such as the My Energi Zappi Car Charger. This addition would allow them to make even more efficient use of their solar generation. If their operating hours change or they begin to require more energy usage after sunlight hours, they could also benefit from a Duracell home battery. This would enable them to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use in the evenings, further enhancing their energy independence and sustainability.
Ongoing Partnership
Our relationship with NearyNógs extends beyond the installation. We recently partnered with them to run a successful Facebook competition, offering a £100 gift basket of their solar-powered chocolate. The response was fantastic, generating a lot of excitement.
Conclusion
The collaboration between NearyNógs and Solarfix highlights how businesses can integrate renewable energy solutions into their operations while maintaining high standards of sustainability and efficiency. Both NearyNogs and Solarfix share an ethos of quality products and a sustainable future.
If you want to try chocolate made by solar power, check out NearyNógs! If you're interested in generating your own solar energy, contact us today!
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