Nationwide Print improves green credentials with solar panel installation

Nationwide Print has taken a "massive step" towards its goal of eliminating its carbon footprint by installing a photovoltaic (PV) roof that will generate power using sunlight.

The St Austell, Cornwall-based business, which was shortlisted as an SME of the year at the PrintWeek Awards 2010, claims the rooftop installation is one of the largest of its kind in the country.

The install comprises 150 solar panels that will help save around 15 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, according to the company.

Although the installation was only completed on Friday (12 August), the printer anticipates the system could power up to 50% of the 15-staff company's output.

According to Julian Hocking, managing director at Nationwide Print, the project has made a "bigger contribution to saving the planet than all the environmental accreditation certificates we have achieved".

He said: "It was a natural progression’. We use vegetable-based inks, recycled paper, sensor lighting, recycle everything and have a newly installed insulated roof and windows.

"We now want to generate our ‘green’ power. We are one of the greenest environmental printers in the country."