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7 Businesses That Went Solar and Never Looked Back

For many businesses, energy isn’t just a cost, it’s one of the biggest overheads they face. Add in rising prices, sustainability pressures, and the need to future-proof operations, and solar power is no longer a “nice to have.” It’s a strategic decision.

Across Yorkshire and beyond, organisations of every size, from schools to manufacturers to sports clubs, are proving that solar delivers real, lasting results.

Here are seven businesses that went solar with Novus Energy… and never looked back.

1. Harewood Downs Golf Club ⛳

Running a golf club means maintaining pristine greens, busy clubhouses, and energy-hungry facilities. At Harewood Downs, solar panels now power much of the club’s operations, slashing bills and allowing more resources to be reinvested into the member experience.

Why it matters:

  • The club’s carbon footprint has been significantly reduced
  • Lower running costs keep memberships competitive
  • Sustainability helps attract new members

Read the full case study here

2. National Trust – Gibson Mill 🌿

As a historic property in the heart of Hardcastle Crags, Gibson Mill was one of the National Trust’s early pilot sites for renewable energy. Novus worked with them to install solar that blends into the heritage setting while delivering clean power to an iconic landmark.

Why it matters:

  • Protects a heritage site from rising costs
  • Demonstrates leadership in sustainability
  • Inspires thousands of annual visitors to think greener

Read the full case study here

3. John Winter (Manufacturing) 🏭

John Winter, a leading manufacturer based in Halifax, relies on heavy machinery and consistent energy supply. By integrating solar into their operations, they’ve cut overheads and reinforced their commitment to sustainable manufacturing.

Why it matters:

  • Strong ROI through reduced overheads
  • Future-proofed against volatile energy prices
  • Strengthens ESG credentials for supply chain partners

Read the full case study here

4. Brian Widdop Pallets 📦

As a local business supplying pallets to multiple industries, Widdop’s saw an opportunity to control costs and stand out with a greener message. Solar now powers their site, helping them stay competitive in a market where sustainability is increasingly a customer demand.

Why it matters:

  • Energy savings help keep pricing sharp
  • Shows commitment to sustainable operations
  • Supports long-term business resilience

Read the full case study here

5. Sowerby Bridge Golf Club ⛳

Following in the footsteps of other forward-thinking clubs, Sowerby Bridge Golf Club embraced solar to reduce costs and create a greener legacy. Members now play knowing the club is powered by Yorkshire sunshine.

Why it matters:

  • Cuts bills in a time of rising costs
  • Supports the club’s green credentials
  • Adds long-term value to the course

Read the full case study here

6. Thornton Primary School 📚

For Thornton Primary, solar isn’t just about saving money, it’s about education. Alongside installing panels, Novus created a video for pupils and families, turning the project into a lesson in sustainability. The school is now saving thousands, while inspiring the next generation of climate heroes.

Why it matters:

  • Energy savings protect school budgets
  • Children learn about renewable energy firsthand
  • Builds a culture of sustainability in the community

Read the full case study here

7. Azo Ltd (Industrial) ⚙️

As a manufacturer supplying the plastics and food industries, Azo Ltd runs energy-intensive operations. Solar allows them to offset a huge portion of those costs, while demonstrating environmental responsibility to major clients.

Why it matters:

  • Significant long-term savings
  • Meets client expectations on sustainability
  • Improves resilience in a competitive sector

Read the full case study here

The Bigger Picture 🌍

From golf clubs to schools, heritage sites to manufacturers, these businesses prove one thing: once you switch to solar, you don’t look back.

The benefits are consistent:

  • Lower bills and predictable costs
  • Energy independence in uncertain markets
  • Sustainability credentials that matter more than ever in B2B supply chains

Ready to Join Them?

At Novus Energy, we specialise in designing and installing commercial solar systems that deliver real ROI for businesses of all sizes.

📞 Contact our team today to see how solar could transform your organisation, and why so many businesses are already glad they made the switch.

Call us on 01422 768113 or simply fill out the contact form below and one of our friendly team will get back to you.

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