When looking at solar power generation versus usage, the graphs can look a little like a roller coaster! While generation tends to be mainly steady, peaking around midday, usage can fluctuate and so often doesn’t match. This can leave surplus power during the day and a shortage when the sun goes down.  

Introducing…solar battery storage!

What are the benefits of solar battery storage?

By installing battery storage, surplus power that would have otherwise been sent back to the national grid is captured for utilisation on site later in the day. In utilising more of the power generated on site, you reduce the amount of power drawn from the grid thus further reducing your energy bills and reliance on the grid.  

Yes, battery storage requires a greater initial investment however this often outweighs the additional cost that would have been spent on grid-sourced power. The alternative to storing this power may be to enter into a smart export agreement. At the time of publication, this rate is currently between 10-16p on average. Yes, this generates a revenue however if you then have to purchase power later in the day at double the price, can you really afford not to install a battery?  

How do I know what solar battery storage system is right for me?

Battery technology has improved significantly over recent years and as such there are many options available. Depending on your requirements, our team can advise on a system to best suit your needs and budget – and help you get the most out of your investment.  

For more information about battery storage or solar installation, contact our team of experts to see how much energy and money you could save.

 Apprenticeships provide opportunities for individuals to develop new skills and become work ready, and for businesses to upskill their workforce and achieve growth.

A valued part of our workshop team, Ethan Thompson joined Thompsons as an apprentice and once qualified, employed as a joiner. This National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we asked Ethan to share his experience of taking the apprenticeship route and the impact it has had on his career.

What is your role at Thompsons, and what does it involve?

I’m a joiner. So on a day-to-day basis I’ll be given a drawing of a design and I’ll take that away to make the product. Depending on the job this could be completed in as little as a day, or take as long as a few weeks. We work on such a range of clients and projects which means the work is really varied and interesting.

When did you do your apprenticeship at Thompsons?

I started my Carpentry and Joinery Level 2 apprenticeship at Thompsons in July 2020, before going on to complete Advanced Carpentry and Joinery Level 3.

What made you want to do an apprenticeship?

My dad was in a similar industry when he was 16 so that was definitely an influence. Also, I had always wanted to do something with my hands and learn a trade. An apprenticeship just seemed like the perfect option.

What did a typical week look like as an apprentice?

I would spend a selected day a week at Preston College, then the rest of the time I would be at work at Thompsons.

How soon after completing your apprenticeship were you employed by Thompsons?

I was offered a job straightaway, which was brilliant.

What were some of the biggest things you learnt during your apprenticeship?

The main thing would obviously be learning a trade that will stay with me forever. But also, time keeping, dedication, good work ethic, teamwork, professionalism and good communication. They’re all key skills – in any industry.

Would you recommend this type of career path to others?

Definitely – it’s an opportunity to learn great skills and get paid at the same time, so for me that’s a win-win. Also it resulted in me gaining full-time employment, which is the ultimate goal!

Latest footage from time-lapse cameras has shown the progress of the construction of a new care home in Nottingham, being delivered by Thompsons for client Consensus. 

Consensus is dedicated to empowering and inspiring people with learning disabilities and complex needs through residential and supported living services, and person-centred care to help promote independence. 

Our cameras have been set up on site since works began last August to capture the new nine-bedroom facility taking shape.

The £1.8million project, due to be completed in the coming months, forms part of Thompsons’ design & build division, which has been developed to provide clients with an ‘under one roof’ construction service.  

The three-storey building, which comprises apartments ranging in size from 48m2 to 53m2, is being built on the site of a former coal yard, with disused offices and outbuildings demolished prior to our team starting works. 

Once complete, the Nottingham care facility will have two staff offices, a lift to all three floors and a communal garden, as well as off-road parking and EV charging points for electric vehicles. 

Paul Dixon, senior project manager at Thompsons, said: “Ultimately, when planning any type of project, you’re visualising the final outcome not only for the client but the end user too.  

“This project will make a big difference to the lives of people supported by Consensus. It’s also a shining example of the impact and benefits of our design and build division to our clients, and it will be great to watch the entire timelapse footage once the project is completed.”

Because you shouldn’t always believe everything you read on the internet, we’ve pulled together 12 common solar energy myths we often hear to bust them and provide you with the facts.

My roof isn’t south facing,  I can’t have solar 

Wrong – yes, you can! One of the most common myths about solar is that you must have a south facing roof for it to work. This isn’t the case! Solar works from light radiance, not direct sunlight and so installed on a south, east or west facing roof the array will still generate power. Although probably a low yield, it would still provide some generation even on a north facing roof.

We only get a few days of sun in the UK, solar isn’t worth it.

Incorrect. Similarly to the south facing myth, because direct sunshine isn’t required, even on a dull day solar will provide some generation. As you can see from the graph below, solar generation is lower in the winter but it will still produce power.

Solar costs a fortune 

Whilst the initial outlay for solar panels can be deemed pricy for some, the cost of generating your own power will outweigh the cost of purchase from the grid in the long run. The average payback for a solar array is approximately 5-8years depending on the size of array and energy usage.

A study conducted by the Office for Budget Responsibility last year estimated that levelized cost of solar generated electricity (LCOE) could be the cheapest form of power generation. Estimates for energy costs of projects to be commissioned in 2025 show the wind and solar have a LCOE unit cost of between 4 & 5 pence per kWhr with the equivalent combined gas turbine electricity costing 14.4 pence per kWhr (GOV.UK). This does need to be put into context in terms of load balancing on the network, however it is safe to say that renewable technologies including solar are significantly cheaper than other traditional methods of electricity production.

I rent my building so can’t have solar panels 

That’s not always the case. If you have a long-term lease, you may be able to obtain written consent from your landlord to install solar. This may come with a clause for removal at the end of their life or replacement however this would enable you to benefit from solar without ownership of the building. Alternatively, you could encourage your landlord to install solar on the building and arrange a power purchase agreement so that you can both benefit from the installation. 

Solar panels don’t look good!

This is a difficult one as its down to perception. If an array is installed well, it can often look attractive on a roof. Options such as in-roof are also designed to allow the array to effectively become part of the roof and so look more aesthetically pleasing.

Solar panels will damage my roof 

When designing a solar installation, the most suitable mounting equipment is selected for your roof type. During the installation process, great care is taken to ensure that there is no damage to the roof and any roofing materials that are removed are re-instated or sealed.

Where solar is mounted above standard roofing materials, they can in fact shield the roof somewhat from the elements. All of our installations come with a 5 year workmanship warranty to give you peace of mind that should you have any issues, we’re on hand to help.

Installing solar means you won’t have an electricity bill 

Unfortunately not. Whilst installation of solar will reduce your energy bills, you will still have an electricity bill for the power you consume when the solar isn’t generating. Ways to further reduce your bills include:

• Add a suitably sized battery to allow for more of the power generated to be utilised on site.

• Agree a smart export guarantee with your energy supplier to enable you to generate a revenue from power export back to the gird.

• Go off-grid! Maybe an extreme option but the only way to eliminate your bill completely would be to install a system large enough to cover your demands in all eventualities.

Solar Panels don’t work 

But they do! When correctly designed and installed, solar panels work! Like with any technology, there is always some negative press and claims that they don’t work. This simply isn’t true. Solar is a proven technology which has been around for over 60 years.

If there’s a power cut, a solar array will still provide power to your building

Solar panels alone won’t enable you to have off-grid power in the event of a power cut. However, in the UK, certain battery storage manufacturers have the ability to effectively create a mini-grid in the event of a power outage, thus allowing you to be off-grid and utilise power generated on site.

Solar Panels don’t save carbon

Yes, they do! Solar panels offer a potentially huge saving of carbon emissions over their lifetime. Research has shown that the average carbon payback period for solar panels is 1-4 years. This means that over their lifetime, typically 40 years, each panel will generate zero-carbon and zero-pollution electricity for decades after any carbon emitted in its production has been paid back.

Solar technology is changing so fast, it’s not worth installing yet 

False. It’s true that solar technology is changing relatively quickly, however it’s only to be expected with the massive expansion and distribution of a successful new tech.

Solar power has already evolved to a point where it is effectively the cheapest and easiest to run technology. It would be remiss to disregard a tech that is already so efficient.

Solar Panels don’t last

They really do! Solar is one of the most reliable generation technologies.  To combat any stigma relating to performance and reliability most manufacturers offer outstanding performance warranties of 25-35yrs.  Lets face it, you could only do this if your technology was wholly reliable.

With an astonishing increase in solar installation over the past 10 years, solar speaks for itself.  Armed with these facts there has never been a better time to invest in solar, so go on, give us a call and see how solar can work for you!

Speak to our experts today on 01253 608470 or click here.

Thompsons has completed its latest project for fast food giant Burger King, playing a significant role in the creation of its new store in Preston. 

Located on the City’s Docks, the outlet consists of a restaurant with a drive-thru. The unit has sat empty since its previous occupant Chiquito’s closed during the height of the pandemic in 2020. 

Working as part of a wider team of contractors, our team of 25 helped transform the unit over the course of seven weeks, providing services including bespoke joinery, tiling, drylining, electrical and plumbing. 

As one of four preferred contractors, we’re trusted by the iconic brand to deliver the consistent, quality standards in both Burger King owned stores and franchises; since 2018 we’ve completed refurbishments and fit-outs for stores across the UK. There are more than 500 Burger Kings in the UK, with more due to open in the coming months. 

View the photo gallery below. 

Thompsons Solar is delighted to have been named an Octopus Energy Trusted Partner.  

The partnership with one of the UK’s top energy providers (according to Which) means we have passed Octopus Energy’s vetting system to be an installer of solar and battery storage within the North West, and match its commitment to quality and outstanding customer service. 

To mark the occasion, we’re sharing eight top tips (one for each tentacle) to help you save on resources, as well as a s-quid or two!  

It’s like Blackpool illuminations in here! 

1. Turn off the lights in rooms you’re not using – this sounds so simple, but it’s something that is easily overlooked. 

2. Consider switching to LED lighting where possible – LEDs are far more energy efficient than conventional lighting, and better for the environment. 

3. Use solar lights in your garden and outdoor spaces, rather than a mains connected light. Again – much better for the environment, and your electricity bill! 

Baby, it’s cold inside  

4. Turn down the temperature on your boiler slightly – this will enable it to run more efficiently, leading to savings on both energy and money. 

5. Layer up on clothing, rather than sitting in shorts and a t-shirt with the heating on full. A no-brainer! 

6. Use draft excluders to keep out unwanted cold – an easy one to implement, and especially effective during the winter months. 

Money down the drain…  

7. Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth – this really prevents water wastage. 

8. Consider a quick shower rather than a bath, which generally uses more water. 

 If you want 2025 to be the year you unlock the many benefits of solar installation, get in touch with our team today to start your journey to a greener future.  

A project worked on by Thompsons has won a prestigious industry award.

We’re offering our congratulations to interior design and architecture specialists Tibbatts Abel for taking home an accolade at the Northern Design Awards 2024.

The Birmingham-based company clinched the Social Space (£500k – £1m) award for the Devil’s Bar located in Manchester United FC’s Old Trafford stadium.

Thompsons are proud to have worked on the project, having been tasked with transforming an empty space in the North West quadrant of the stadium and bringing to life Tibbatts Abel’s stunning designs through the creation of two separate bar areas with seating and standing areas, as well as toilet facilities.

Over the course of the 16-week project, our team constructed new partition walls and ceilings, specialist joinery features including bars, a ceiling raft and waiter stations, decorative metalwork, tiling and flooring as well as the complete installation of new mechanical, electrical and plumbing services to all areas.

The Northern Design Awards celebrate the best in interior design, architecture and property development, with this year’s final taking place at St George’s Hall in Liverpool.

It was a pleasure to collaborate with the team from Tibbatts Abel on this award-winning project.

Thompsons has completed its latest fit-out projects on behalf of Starbucks franchise partners.

Presented with the shell of a building and just under five weeks to get the job done, our team completed the full fit-out of a new Starbucks drive-thru in Colne for leading petrol forecourt and convenience retail destination operator EG On the Move – building walls and installing all joinery aspects including counters, as well as preparation works prior to the installation of machinery.

Working to tight timescales and as part of a wider team of contractors, our experienced team completed the project on time, ahead of the opening of the new store on a Friday ready for weekend trade. The drive-thru is part of EG On the Move’s new service station on the M65, and marks EG’s 12th site opening this year.

Our team has also been busy down in Lincolnshire, completing the full fit-out of the new Starbucks drive-thru in Foston for operator The Magic Bean Company, which will serve customers travelling on the A1. The company opened its first Starbucks in 2014 and was the first to open a Starbucks drive-thru.

Since 2013, we’ve forged strong relationships with Starbucks franchise partners and as a result are well experienced in delivering its high-quality, consistent branding.

View the photo galleries below.

Starbucks drive-thru, Colne for EG On the Move

Starbucks drive-thru, Foston for The Magic Bean Company

Thompsons has boosted its team with the appointment of three new members of staff.  

Andy Beaghan, Jamie Hull and Jordan Gill have all joined us and will work across a range of departments.  

Andy has joined us as a project manager, with his responsibilities including creation of construction plans, client liaison and ensuring projects are finished on time and to budget.  

Andy, from Rishton, has a range of industry experience and has worked on new build and refurbishment projects within sectors including hotels and leisure, care homes, offices, industrial and education. He previously worked for a Manchester construction company. 

We’ve also welcomed Jamie, who has been appointed as assistant quantity surveyor. Jamie, who lives in Clitheroe, will work closely with the QS team, shadowing a senior quantity surveyor and developing the skills of a QS including estimating costs, compliance and progress reporting.  

Jordan makes up our new trio and joins us as payroll executive to support the accounts department with managing payroll, using accounting software and processing expenses. Jordan, who lives in Preston, joins us from a housing retrofit and decarbonisation scheme company.  

Thompsons owner and executive director Matthew Thompson said: “We’re delighted to welcome Andy, Jamie and Jordan to Thompsons.  

“At the heart of our company is family, and anyone who becomes part of our team becomes a part of our wider Thompsons family, which is a pleasure to see and something which our customers also benefit from.” 

Andy commented: “From my first interview it was clear Thompsons has all the qualities I was looking for – a family run business, low staff turnover and repeat customers. I’m really pleased to have joined the team.” 

If you’d like to become a part of team Thompsons, check out our careers page here.

Have yourself a sustainable little Christmas!

With the festive season upon us, we wanted to share a few tips on how to reduce your carbon footprint this Christmas. Just a few small changes can have a big impact.  

Follow these suggestions to make sure that it’s not only your tree that’s green this year!  

Dec the halls 

But when you do, re-use last year’s decs! If you want to change up your Christmas style, why not check out local charity shops or fayres for pre-loved items. If buying new, try to opt for plastic-free products or those made locally to reduce their carbon footprint. 

Oh Christmas tree  

In our opinion there’s no right answer as to whether it’s better to have a real or fake tree. If you are faking it, consider buying a quality tree that will last several years before requiring disposal as most artificial tress can’t currently be recycled. If you prefer the real deal, buy from a sustainable supplier and consider how you dispose of the tree. Local councils sometimes offer a collection service to use the trees for projects such as sand dune erosion or ground improvement.  

On the good list 

Remember – it’s who’s around the tree, not what’s under it that counts at Christmas time. But, giving is such a highlight of the festive season, isn’t it? 

Shop local; by buying from local retailers, you not only reduce the carbon footprint of your presents but also help to support local businesses. Also, handmade gifts make excellent unique presents.  

If you’re feeling crafty, why not make your own gifts? Get the family involved too for extra fun. 

Whilst they’re sometimes a good laugh, try to avoid gimmicky gifts that will be unwanted or likely to end up in the bin by boxing day.   

Remember – good quality toys and books may have a longer life and be passed onto friends and family, giving them a second and third life.  

That’s a wrap!  

Opt for Christmas wrapping that can be easily recycled. Most suppliers will label those that can be put in home recycling. Get creative and wrap using recycled materials such as newspapers or even material. Why not try wrapping a bottle of wine in a tea-towel… double the gift, zero waste! Dig out gift bags you may have received last year and keep hold of this year’s, for next! 

Take a seat 

Crackers are a great tradition, but the fun is over in a few seconds. Why not consider Christmas crackers made from recyclable material and without the plastic gift inside? This will reduce the amount of non-recyclable waste (has anyone ever put a photograph in one of those little frames?!) 

One of the biggest wastes all year round, and especially at Christmas time, is food. Look at cooking a little less, letting people serve themselves and of course… use up the leftovers.  Who doesn’t love turkey curry?  

Baby it’s cold outside  

Help keep your home warm and cosy by closing curtains and using draft excluders. When cooking your turkey, heat from the oven will contribute to heating your home so you may wish to turn down the heating temperature. Using radiator thermostats can also help reduce heat waste. 

And don’t forget to get out the winter blanket and get cosy on the couch. Instead of sitting in your summer clothes and cranking up the heating, grab a cosy blanket and snuggle up on the couch whilst watching your favourite Christmas movie!  

Have a very merry (sustainable) Christmas – from all at Thompsons!