Global company Essentra Components, a leading provider of essential components and solutions, is continuing its commitment to achieving ‘net zero’ by 2040 in line with future ESG (environmental, social and governance) targets by commissioning the installation of a 6,000m² solar array at its manufacturing site located in Rayong, Thailand. The newly completed installation will ultimately generate up to 824kW of energy, providing the facility with up to 20% of its annual electricity requirements and supporting its global manufacturing operations in South East Asia.

The new project mirrors the recent progress made by the company over the last few years towards its ESG targets, as direct emissions have fallen by 27% and emissions intensity by 35% against its 2019 baseline. Essentra has pledged to achieve ‘net zero’ in direct operations by 2040. Alongside setting new short-term emissions reduction targets, which are aligned with science-based thinking, the new solar array is a key part of achieving these goals. As the company works towards reducing its reliance on fossil-fuel generated electricity, it is estimated this project will avoid the generation of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by over 450 tonnes of CO₂e (carbon dioxide equivalent) each year.

Jennifer Spence, head of sustainability strategy at Essentra believes the panels are an exciting part of the journey towards ‘net zero’: “Every good business is now focused on how it can become more energy independent and reduce its emissions, and, as rising energy prices are accelerating, the transition to renewable energy. When the panels are fully operational, we will be monitoring closely the amount of energy they generate, and the costs we can save, to the benefit of our business, our customers, and our planet.”