March 10, 2026 Commercial Solar Power

Peacock Salt, the UK’s largest distributor of salt products, has reduced electricity costs at its Ayr distribution terminal by more than half through investment in on-site solar and battery storage. 

The system is projected to deliver £36,343 in annual electricity cost savings, equivalent to a 51% reduction in grid electricity costs. The project has a payback period of two years and a projected internal rate of return of 48.7%. 

For a high-energy industrial site, the installation provides immediate cost savings and greater certainty over future energy costs. 

The challenge: rising electricity costs at a major distribution site 

Peacock Salt operates nine locations across the UK, including its Jura Terminal at North Harbour, Ayr. 

The site uses approximately 143,929 kWh of electricity each year to support its operations. Like many industrial businesses, Peacock Salt was exposed to rising electricity prices and ongoing uncertainty in grid energy costs. 

The business wanted to reduce operating costs while improving visibility and control over long-term energy spend. 

The solution: on-site solar generation with battery storage 

Following detailed analysis of the site’s electricity use and tariff structure, Innasol designed and delivered a 90kWp solar PV system with integrated battery storage. 

The system generates approximately 86,266 kWh of electricity each year. Battery storage allows more of that electricity to be used on site, reducing the amount that needs to be purchased from the grid during higher-cost periods. 

As a result, around 49% of the site’s total electricity demand can now be met through on-site generation. Approximately 83% of the solar electricity produced is used directly by the site, with the remainder exported. 

“The system was designed to match the site’s electricity demand profile as closely as possible. By combining solar generation with battery storage, the business is able to maximise on-site use of the electricity it produces and achieve a strong financial return.” Paul Shearin, Director, Innasol Solar 

The financial impact 

The total investment was £74,500 (ex VAT). 

The system is projected to deliver annual savings of £36,343, equivalent to a 51% reduction in electricity costs based on previous consumption and tariff rates. 

This gives a payback period of two years and a projected internal rate of return of 48.7%. 

Once the system has paid for itself, it will continue to reduce electricity costs for the remainder of its operational life. 

Installation and delivery partners 

The installation was delivered by Innasol working with its specialist delivery partners. 

PWR Electrical Services Ltd, a NICEIC-registered electrical contractor based on the west coast of Scotland, carried out the electrical installation, system integration, and commissioning. 

Solar Central Scotland installed the rooftop solar PV system, providing experienced installation and roof integration services. 

SC Scaffolding provided scaffolding and access to enable safe installation works. 

All works were coordinated and managed by Innasol to ensure safe delivery and system performance. 

Operational and long-term benefits 

In addition to direct cost savings, the installation reduces the site’s reliance on grid electricity and limits exposure to future price increases. 

It also provides greater predictability in energy costs and supports the company’s wider sustainability objectives. 

“We’re absolutely delighted with our recent solar panel and battery installation. From start to finish, the service was fantastic, professional, efficient, and Innasol were always happy to answer our questions. The quality of the installation and the performance of the system have exceeded our expectations, and it feels great knowing we’re saving on energy bills while doing our bit for the environment. We’d happily recommend Innasol to anyone looking to go solar.” Alan Fairlamb, Operations Manager, Peacock Salt 

Delivered by Innasol 

Innasol designed and managed the project from initial assessment through to installation and commissioning. 

By analysing the site’s electricity profile and operational requirements, Innasol specified a system sized to deliver strong financial performance while supporting long-term operational needs. 

Innasol works with commercial and industrial organisations across the UK to reduce energy costs through properly designed solar and battery systems, with a focus on financial return, reliability, and long-term value.  

If this is something you are considering, or would simply like a no obligation conversation, please do give us a call 0161 892613, or email us Paul.Shearin@INNASOL.COM.