MKM tackling carbon emissions with solar PV trials

MKM is paving the way to greater sustainability across its network by trialling solar power at two of its established branches.

The UK’s largest independent builder’s merchant is taking another step forward in its commitment to tackling carbon emissions after installing solar PV technology at both its Leeds and Newark branches.

Rachel Constable, Head of ESG for MKM, comments: “As a business, it’s very important that we are ‘doing the right thing’. For us, this includes operating in the most environmentally-conscious way.

“The trial of solar PV technology at MKM Leeds and MKM Newark marks another strategic step in our journey towards our sustainability goals. The pilot scheme, which runs for the next 12 months, aims to successfully generate enough energy to power the existing branch’s operational demand, accommodate future electric vehicle technologies and also sell electricity back to grid.

“Whilst it’s still early days, trial data suggests this is going to be a huge success and therefore has the potential to be rolled out at more of our existing MKM branches and in our new-build sites in the future.”

This latest announcement follows a number of sustainable initiatives that MKM has introduced in recent months, from the trial of Compressed Natural Gas HGVs and the introduction of electric forklift trucks, to the installation of EV charging points across its branch network, which will take place over the next few years.

In addition to Leeds and Newark, another MKM branch that is leading the way in sustainable practices is MKM Glasgow, with renewable energy sources including biomass combined heat and power and solar PV.

“Rising energy costs and global climate concerns are encouraging everyone to focus more on alternative energy technologies and MKM is no different,” continues Rachel.

“Along with the investments we are making to reduce our operational carbon footprint, we are also extending our renewable technology offering for our customers to ensure they have access to all latest innovations on the market – from solar PV to air source heat pumps, and a spectrum of other sustainable technologies. “