As the global push for sustainability intensifies, more businesses are committing to net zero emissions  targets. Achieving these goals requires a strategic shift in how companies consume and produce energy. One of the most impactful and accessible solutions?  Commercial solar power.

What does net zero actually mean for businesses? 

Net zero means balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with the amount removed from the atmosphere. For businesses, this involves reducing emissions across operations, supply chains, and energy use – while offsetting any remaining emissions through carbon credits or other means.

Why solar energy is key to net-zero strategies 

Solar energy plays a pivotal role in helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint. Here’s why: 

1. Clean, renewable power 

Solar panels generate electricity without emitting carbon dioxide or other harmful pollutants. By switching to solar, businesses can significantly cut their reliance on fossil fuels. 

2. Energy independence 

Installing solar panels allows companies to produce their own electricity, reducing dependence on the grid and insulating against energy price volatility. 

3. Scalable solutions 

Whether you’re a small business or a multinational corporation, solar systems can be scaled to meet your energy needs – making it a flexible solution for net-zero planning. 

4. Supports ESG goals 

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics are increasingly important to investors and stakeholders. Solar adoption demonstrates a tangible commitment to environmental responsibility. 

The financial benefits of going solar 

Beyond sustainability, solar offers compelling financial incentives: 

• Lower energy bills over time
• Tax credits and government incentives
• Increased property value
• Attractive ROI  with payback periods often under 10 years 

How to integrate solar into your net zero plan 

1. Conduct an energy audit to understand your current usage. You can do this in-house or work with an external auditor. Depending on your geographic location, funded options may be available. For example in Blackpool, this is offered by Net Zero Business Academy – Blackpool Unlimited and in the wider Lancashire area, Chamber Low Carbon. 
2. Set clear emissions reduction targets and stick to them! Big or small, set a goal. 
3. Seek advice from a solar expert to get a full understanding of how the system works and how it can benefit your business. The internet is a wonderful thing however unfortunately there is a lot of contradicting information regarding solar. Having a conversation with a professional can answer all your questions and arm you with the information you need.
4. Explore financing options like PPAs or asset financing. If you aren’t in a position to put the capitol upfront, there are other options available.  
5. Get your landlord onboard if your property is rented. They can benefit from a fixed income and return on investment whilst you benefit from reduced energy costs and environmental credentials.  
6. Monitor and report progress to stakeholders. If you’re going to take the time to invest in solar, take note of its impact on your business and shout about it!  

Solar energy isn’t just a smart environmental choice – it’s a strategic business decision. As the world moves toward a low-carbon future, companies that embrace solar now will be better positioned to meet regulatory requirements, attract eco-conscious customers, and achieve long-term sustainability. 

Ready to take the next step toward net zero?  Talk to a member of our solar team for a chat about how it can impact your business.  

Let’s talk money! As energy costs continue to rise and environmental concerns grow, more businesses are turning to commercial solar energy – not just for sustainability, but for the significant financial advantages it offers. Whether you’re looking to cut monthly outgoings, increase your green credentials, or secure long-term savings, solar power is a smart investment.  

Saving money on business energy bills 

Usually the most significant factor in businesses choosing commercial solar is the impact that solar energy has on electricity costs. Where power generated on site is utilised on site, there is an instant saving on your energy bill. Power that you may usually have paid 35p/kWh for has now cost you nothing. If you use 1,000kWh of solar power, that’s a £350 saving straight away! Over a year, this saving is significant, especially if you’re a particularly high energy user.  

Tip: Maximise your savings. Is there anything you can do during daylight hours that you’d usually do once the sun goes down? Can things be charged or cycled whilst the sun is shining? Remember – the more power you use while your solar is generating, the bigger the saving on your bill. 

Revenue from solar panel installation 

Now that we’ve seen the savings, let’s look at the potential revenue. Once your system is installed, you may be able to register for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), a solar incentive program currently available in the UK.  Once registered with your chosen licensee, your export will be metered and payments made for any units exported to the grid. 

Tip: You don’t have to register for SEG with the company you currently buy your power from. It’s always worth shopping around to see which company can offer the best rates at the time of your application. 

Solar tax relief  

As an added benefit to the savings and revenue of your solar installation, in most instances businesses can claim 100% first-year capital allowances on solar panel investments under the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA). This allows you to deduct the full cost of solar equipment from taxable profits. 

Tip: Speak to your company accountant to check your eligibility and for further information. 

Commercial solar panel installation cost 

In short, there’s no fixed cost for installing solar panels. From an installation perspective, it depends on the size of array, type of roof and ease of access. Manufacturer quality and prices can vary greatly which is also a big factor in the cost of installation. Following a site visit, a firm quotation can be issued so you’ll know exactly how much the solar installation will cost.  

Tip: When obtaining comparative quotations, to ensure like for like, make sure the companies are using the same manufacturers.

Solar panel grants 

Solar grants for businesses these days are quite rare, however there are some pockets of money that may be available to you. Some Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) and Growth Hubs offer bespoke funding or low-interest loans for renewable energy projects. These are often region-specific and may include match funding. 

Tip: Contact your local council directly to find out what finding may be available in your area.

Solar panel financing  

Where funds may not be readily available to install solar panels on your premises, financing may be an option. Whilst some banks offer favourable rates on ‘green’ loans, asset financing is often a cost-effective option. Our partners at Premier Asset Financing will be able to talk through your options and offer competitive rates.  

Tip: Once a finance offer has been issued, the additional cost can be worked into our proposal to give a more accurate overall payback.  

Solar Power Purchase Agreements 

In some instances where the building is rented, installation of solar may not be possible as a direct investment. In this case, if your landlord is willing to install, you could arrange what’s called a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This is an agreed price per kWh, so you can benefit from energy cost security whilst your landlord receives a fixed return on their investment.  

Tip: Check out our case study for a tenanted site we completed where both parties are delighted with the installation benefits. Better still – share it with your landlord! 

Whether you have funding and are looking to install ASAP, or are at the start of your solar journey trying to find your way, we’re happy to help guide you and provide support and information. Contact our solar team today for more information.  

Thompsons is thrilled to unveil the new website of Daedalian Glass Studios.

Daedalian became a part of the Thompsons Contracts Group in November 2024, with the founding family team and studios in Hambleton, Lancashire being retained.

Founded by Davia Walmsley in 1986, Daedalian designs, manufactures and installs the highest quality glass products, producing unique creations for clients around the world.

From high end private residences to five-star hotels and super yachts, the team has delivered hundreds of prestigious projects, including The Peninsula Hotel, Royal Palace Riyadh, and The Savoy Hotel.

Matthew Thompson said: “In the two years since the repurchase of Thompsons, we have focused on development and growth by prioritising quality craftmanship and the highest standards of service delivery. The acquisition of Daedalian further strengthens our position.

“The Daedalian team’s 40 years of artisan glass expertise perfectly complements Thompsons’ range of services; enhancing our offering to existing and potential clients. We’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact this will have as we work to achieve our goals in this exciting new chapter.”

You can visit the new website here.

In 2024, Thompsons conducted a carbon assessment through the Blackpool Net Zero Academy to look at our current carbon emissions and see how we could reduce them.

With energy, water and waste taken into account, our CO2 emissions were 61.56 tonnes per annum.

A Decarbonisation Action Plan was then put in place to reduce our footprint as a company and several actions are already underway.

On this World Environment Day, we encourage everyone to think green – both in the workplace and at home. From switching off lights to making simple swaps when shopping, together we can make a big difference.

How we’re lowering our carbon footprint

We recently installed motion sensors in the meeting and communal areas of our office to reduce power consumption through lights being left on when not in use. This measure is expected to save approximately 478kgCO2e per year.

We have also recently acquired the Procore platform, a significant step towards improving operational efficiencies. As part of our ongoing commitment, we are exploring additional digitalisation platforms for accounting, aiming to reduce paper consumption and enhance overall efficiency.

Improving skip segregation processes has enhanced our site waste management. This is part of our broader focus on minimising waste generation and promoting responsible waste disposal practices.

To improve energy efficiencies at our head office, we have installed solar panels. This step reinforces our commitment to utilising renewable energy sources.

Coinciding with Great Big Green Week, we’ll be launching our own office book swap. Instead of buying new books, we’re offering our team the opportunity to bring one in to swap.

How to reduce your carbon footprint

Next time you go food shopping, look for plastic-free alternatives. While most fruit and veg is wrapped in plastic, it sometimes actually works out cheaper buying loose as well as being better for the environment. Shop seasonally – depending on the time of year, certain foods are more readily available. In choosing products that are in season in the UK currently, the food you buy will not only be fresher and supportive of local farms but will also have a much smaller carbon footprint.

Now we’re heading into the summer months, consider walking or cycling short journeys rather than using a car. If all Thompsons employees swapped a mile driving for a mile walking each month, we’d save 374kg of CO2 in just one year.

At the end of each day, check you’ve switched off any electrical items, such as your computer, heaters and any other equipment that’s plugged in.

Rewards for reducing waste

There are also many ways to help the environment and save money. Below are some initiatives that are designed to reduce waste which also provide a reward.

Too Good To Go – Local shops, cafes and supermarkets parcel up food that’s due to expire and sell at a greatly reduced rate. It’s potluck what’s in the bag but saves the waste and the pounds!

Boots – Register and return 5 eligible items to a participating boots store and receive a £5 voucher to spend in store.

River Island – Return preloved clothes through the Take Back scheme and receive a £5 voucher to spend in store.

H&M – Return unwanted clothes and textiles to store and receive a ‘Thank you’ voucher.

TK Maxx – Partnered with Cancer Research UK, TK Maxx will sort your unwanted items and re-sell in charity shops.

Olio – A local sharing platform to give away unwanted items otherwise headed for landfill. This can be anything from food to a bike. Useless to you, useful to someone down the road.

Everyone has a responsibility to tackle climate change and protect our environment – no matter how big or small the steps are, we’re all in it together.

Thompsons is proud to have been shortlisted for two prestigious Lancashire business accolades.

We’ve been named finalists in the Medium Business and Construction Business categories of the Be Inspired Business Awards (BIBAs).

The BIBAs is the county’s largest, longest running and most prestigious business awards ceremony, recognising excellence and achievement.

Known as ‘the one they all want to win,’ it’s organised by the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce with the final held every September at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

The BIBAs shortlisting follows our success at the Red Rose Awards in March this year where we won the Built Environment Award.

At last year’s BIBAs ceremony, Thompsons was runner up in both the Medium Business and Construction Business categories, and Highly Commended in the latter.

As well as the awards, the BIBAs Foundation uses donations made by businesses during the ceremony to help nurture and support young entrepreneurs from across the region.

We’ll welcome the judges to Thompsons HQ as part of the ‘BIBAs on Tour’ process next month, before crossing our fingers ahead of the final in September. Wish us luck!

Thompsons Solar has partnered with Northern Trust Company Limited to support the company’s commitment to sustainability and utilising renewable energy sources, as it works to meet the growing demand for sustainable properties in the UK.

Our team designed and installed a solar PV system for the property investment company’s Centrix @ Keys Business Village, a three-storey serviced office centre in Staffordshire. The system will help lower carbon emissions, as well as reduce energy costs.

Northern Trust, which has an existing property portfolio extending to 9 million sq ft of industrial, trade counter and office parks, has also invested in an energy-efficient air source heat pump system, as well as LED light fittings incorporating intelligent controls to further reduce energy usage.

Jon Kemp, Thompsons Solar’s solar director, said: “We’re thrilled to partner with Northern Trust on this initiative. By installing a high-performance solar PV system, we’re helping Centrix @ Keys Business Village make a significant step towards sustainability.

“This installation will not only lower carbon emissions but also contribute to a more resilient and cost-effective energy strategy for the property.”

Neil McManus, senior development executive at Northern Trust said: “We are dedicated to creating a more sustainable and efficient workspace for our tenants.

“These upgrades are a critical part of our long-term strategy to reduce our environmental impact while also delivering tangible benefits to our tenants in terms of energy savings and comfort. Centrix @ Keys Business Village is an important location for us, and we’re committed to making it a leader in sustainability.”

Interested in the benefits of solar energy for your business, but not quite sure of the process?   

At Thompsons Solar, it’s our goal to make things as simple as possible for our clients – which is why we’ve developed a turn-key solution to provide you with a straightforward, streamlined service – no hassle.  

Here’s a guide to help you gain a better understanding of how it all works, in just seven easy steps.  

1. Initial Enquiry 

First, a member of our team will talk through your project and discuss what you are looking to achieve. Whether this be reducing your carbon emissions, gaining more independence from the grid or simply to save money, we want to fully understand your goal.  

You’ll be asked for information such as your current energy usage and cost of power, usually found on your electricity bill. We’ll also ask for more information about your roof, access and electrical connection. If you’re unsure of any of this information, assumptions will be made that can be confirmed later.   

This initial call usually takes around 10 minutes depending on the complexity of installation however we’ll be happy to chat through your project and answer any questions you might have. 

2. Design  

Once we’ve obtained all the information we need, we’ll set to work designing a system that best suits your requirements.  

During this stage, we use our expert knowledge and design software to specify appropriate equipment to fit your requirements. This includes assessing mounting systems, inverters, batteries and of course the solar panels.  

On completion of our design, we will issue an initial proposal including details of yield, cost and ROI estimates. This may include more than one option if we feel it beneficial. 

3. Site Survey 

To assess your site in detail and confirm our costings, a full site survey is required. During this survey, an assessment will be made of your property including electrical connection, site access and where possible, installation area.

This survey will also provide the opportunity to discuss your project in more detail and ask any questions you may have. Our aim is to provide all the information you need to make an informed decision on what’s best for you. 

4. Grid Connection & Planning 

The next stage is to acquire any permissions that may be required.  

Grid connection – Any installation over 3.68kW single phase or 11.04kW three phase must have a connection agreement in place prior to installation.  

Planning – Depending on the type of installation, planning permission may be required. Guidance is available via the planning portal or from your local planning authority (LPA).   

Our team offer in-house grid and planning services or can guide you through the process should you wish to obtain permissions yourself. 

5. Installation 

Now for the exciting bit…  

Safe access will be put in place and our teams will set to work installing your array. Roof works will be completed and inverters installed as per the pre-agreed design. The system will then be connected to your electrical supply and commissioned in accordance with the manufacturers requirements. Upon completion, the installation will be tested and certified by a qualified engineer.  

Once site works are complete, a full handover pack will be issued including details of the products installed, user manuals, warranties and certification.  

If you are wanting to register for smart export guarantee (SEG) payments, you’ll need to contact your energy provider or shop around for the best tariff (whilst we can advise on this, it’s the only bit we can’t actually do on your behalf).  

6. Monitoring 

To keep a check on the performance of your installation, monitoring is included which can be viewed online or via an app. This will give you live data but also enables you to pull reports of historic generation so that you can see the savings made.  

7. Maintenance 

Whilst solar is a virtually maintenance free system, it is advisable to have the system checked and cleaned periodically. Most window cleaning firms offer a solar cleaning service if panels aren’t easily accessible.  If you have any questions about your installation or regarding generation, our solar experts at Thompsons are always on hand to help.  

Get in touch with our team today to find out more about unlocking the benefits of solar energy.

Team Thompsons is celebrating after being named winners of the Built Environment category at this year’s Red Rose Awards.

Over 1,000 people attended the ceremony at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, with this year’s final marking the 15th year of the awards which recognise business excellence across Lancashire.

24 accolades were presented during the evening, including Employer of the Year, Made in Lancashire, Not-for-profit and Family Business – with the Built Environment category sponsored by Harrison Drury Solicitors.

The judges remarked that Thompsons ‘deserved special praise for its staff incentives and employee wellness initiative, which makes it a great place to work,’ and that ‘the business was judged for the breadth of projects and work with industry leading and national organisations.’

Matthew Thompson said: ‘Every single employee of Thompsons plays an important role in the running of the business and this award is testament to the hard work, dedication and passion we all put in – it really is a team effort.

“Given the changes we’ve successfully navigated over the past few years, winning the Built Environment award just goes to show the impact we’ve been having in the industry, and we’re looking forward to sharing details on several exciting projects that are currently underway.

“The Red Rose Awards shine a light on the brilliant work being done by businesses across the county and we’d like to congratulate our fellow winners and all the finalists – roll on RRA26!”

With National Careers Week recently taking place, promoting the importance of career support and guidance, we caught up with Thompsons’ Jack Hayes to find out how completing an NVQ is helping him learn and develop in his role as assistant project manager. 

Can you describe your role at Thompsons? 

I have been working at Thompsons for just over a year now. The role of assistant project manager is quite varied; I am managing projects on the Rosas workstream, ad-hoc projects for Burnley FC and I also survey potential new projects that are in the pipeline. I mainly work under Ben Bradford as he is the Operations Manager for Rosas. Given his vast experience and skillset, I am learning every day. 

You’re currently completing an NVQ Level 4 in Site Supervision – what’s involved in that and how will it benefit your role? 

It gives me good insight into the role of Site Managers, their responsibilities and the challenges they have to deal with on site. This enables me to work hand in hand with the site management teams and supports me in my job role as I know what’s happening at ground level.  

The Level 4 also allows me to upgrade my CSCS Gold card and provides me with a platform to continue my higher education. You can take up to two years to complete the course, however I am looking at obtaining my certification in the next month. This will hopefully provide the platform to continue my educational journey in construction. 

What are your career aspirations? 

To continue educating myself further and improving in all areas of my job. As long as I continue improving on a day-to-day basis, I hope my career will progress naturally. 

Is there anyone in particular at Thompsons who is providing guidance/support in terms of your studies and CPD? 

I have received a lot of guidance and support from several people. As I’m still early in my career at Thompsons I’m always looking to learn from more experienced people and utilise their skillsets. I’ve received a lot of support from several people; Ben Bradford has offered a lot of guidance, while Shane Blackburn and Carl Johnston have assisted me with commercial queries and challenges. 

Would you recommend an NVQ to others looking to progress their careers?  

Definitely. This qualification is mainly evidence based so it works in line with my job role. The work isn’t admin heavy either which allows me to complete the work outside of my working hours without feeling overwhelmed. 

According to the Office for National Statistics, just 15% of professionals working in the UK construction industry are women. To mark Women in Construction Week 2025, we’re shining the spotlight on some of the women who make up team Thompsons, and asking them to share their experience of working in the industry.

Lucy Bolton, Solar Manager

“I’ve been part of the team for 11 months. I’m responsible for managing all aspects of solar projects from initial design through to installation and monitoring.

I’ve been in this industry for 13 years and I love it because I’m constantly learning new things. Thompsons is a great place to work, because it has a small business feel with a relaxed working environment and lots of interesting projects.

I would highly recommend a career in construction as it’s a varied industry with lots of opportunities to develop professionally. No two projects are the same, and there’s always something new to learn and chances for progression.

When I first started work in construction, I was nervous as it was known to be a male dominant industry, however I’ve seen over the years that isn’t always the case. I wouldn’t want women and girls to be put off by certain barriers or the idea that ‘construction isn’t for girls’ but that’s something we can hopefully continue to overcome and show that this industry should be and can be for anyone.”

Jane Lock, Accounts Department

“I’ve worked at Thompsons for ten years.

The processing of materials and hires invoices, the processing of monthly payment runs and dealing with invoice queries.

I have worked at Thompsons for many years, it’s a friendly, family-run company which looks after its employees. As a working mum to a seven-year-old daughter they have agreed my hours are flexible and I can work from home part of the week – which works well around school.

I am on the office side, so don’t go on site (maybe one day?!). However, it’s great to see what the invoices I process turn into, and fortunately we accessed this recently on a time-lapse video showing the works at Old Trafford, which was really impressive.

The industry definitely needs more women and things are changing, so go for it and make a difference. It’s a job that can be flexible and work around the busy mum life!”

Jenn McLean, Health and Safety Manager

“In April I’ll have been at Thompsons for seven years.

As Health and Safety Manager, I’m responsible for enhancing Thompson’s health and safety standards and ensuring that the company is HSE compliant. This includes conducting inspections of project sites, ensuring proper control measures are in place, and conducting thorough investigations of incidents/accidents, while implementing a lesson learned approach. I also oversee the coordination of training requirements, ensuring that site personnel have the correct qualifications and arrange the company’s CITB training funding and applications.

My role as Health and Safety within construction has its challenges, however it’s a good feeling knowing my work helps to keep people safe. Working at Thompsons, there’s a good working environment, the projects are fast paced and the job roles definitely keeps me on my toes. There are also opportunities to progress within the company.

Having over 20 years of experience in various sectors within the construction industry, the sector has improved and there are more roles suitable for women than ever before. I would say that if it’s an industry you are interested in, then go for it!”

Nat Taylor, Senior Quantity Surveyor

“I’ve been at Thompsons for three years.

As Senior Quantity Surveyor, I oversee the commercial aspects of allocated projects. This includes cost reporting and risk management, subcontractor negotiation, preparing payment notices and  valuations/final accounts.

I’ve always been interested in construction as I was put through my joinery apprenticeship whilst working for my dad’s building company when I was younger. I enjoy working with Thompsons because you are appreciated for your hard work and we have supportive managers if you do have any issues.

My advice would be to someone starting out as a QS is to understand the practical side of construction. Attend sites regularly if you can so you can see how things are built, rather than studying from drawings/books.”