UPM Shotton (U.K.), a leading producer of 100% recycled newsprint, this week announced the group's facility ran on 100% renewable energy for a 4 week period earlier this year, following a connection to the U.K.’s largest solar park on the Deeside Industrial Estate in North Wales.  The solar site, which is visible from outer space, is one of the last and largest of its type under the current U.K. government policy.

The paper mill, which employs approximately 200 people across its Deeside site, already sources 70% of its energy needs via its renewable sources which includes its own biomass power plant which commenced operation in 2006. The agreement with British Solar Renewables, Welink Energy, and Compton Group means that UPM Shotton has halved its purchase of power in April.

"We already have a renowned energy policy with integrated assets such our own power plant and connectivity to EirGrid which operates wind farms in the Irish Sea and leases part of the UPM Shotton site," commented Head of Pulp and Energy for UPM Shotton, Andrew Bronnert.

"Our parent company UPM is already a world-leader in renewable energy and its strategy is to continually increase its use of energy from renewable sources such as hydro-power in Finland and its latest innovation bio-diesel derived from wood fibers," he added. "This latest collaboration with British Solar Renewables,Welink Energy and Compton Group means we now have one of the most sophisticated energy provisions in manufacturing and adds to our strong environmental credentials which are recognised by the Welsh Government and its sustainability teams."

"We’re delighted in the partnership and support we have received from UPM Shotton. With this particular project we’ve been able to further demonstrate our combined strength in business and renewables, working together to create an effective supply of energy for large manufacturing sites," said Andrew Dodge from the joint venture between British Solar Renewables, Welink Energy, and Compton Group

The award-winning mill will also start up a second power plant and turbine in December 2016, enabling 100% use of all steam produced on site.

The Solar Park has over 250,000 individual photovoltaic panels and during daylight hours can provide the UPM Shotton site with 100% of its output. The paper mill is also connected to the national grid and is able to sell-back some of its unused energy, for example, during maintenance time when the PM is not running.