The Jewson branch in Wishaw has become the national builders’ merchant’s first ever net zero carbon site.
The firm says this milestone sets a benchmark for future branches, and is reflective of the company’s dedication to reach net zero emissions by 2050. The Wishaw branch has been completely redeveloped to make it net zero carbon and “helping pave the way for the next generation of builders’ merchants”.
The changes were supported by Jewson’s parent company, Saint-Gobain, and its Carbon Fund, which awarded the branch nearly £240,000 towards the redevelopment. The funding has allowed the branch to generate its own electricity through renewable energy, with improvements including the addition of solar photovoltaic panels on the roof, air source heating and a heat recovery system to capture waste heat within the building.
Additional measures include new external and internal LED lighting and a new 180mm insulated roof to improve energy efficiency, new electric charging facilities for cars and vans and a brand-new fleet of electric fork lift trucks.
This will help to significantly reduce its energy usage and CO2 emissions from the branch. In addition, all of the products used are also available to Jewson customers through the Making Better Homes range. Furthermore, the Making Better Homes hub brings together relevant tips and guidance for tradespeople on how to create comfortable and more sustainable living spaces for their customers.
Brian Jennings, Branch Manager at Jewson Wishaw, said: “We all understand the challenges we face in combatting climate change, especially after COP26 in November. But by doing our bit, and making sure our branch is as energy efficient as possible, we’re making sure it can be enjoyed by generations to come.
“We’re so proud that the Wishaw branch is Jewson’s first net zero carbon branch and is leading the way for further cuts in carbon emissions across the company!”
This project is just one of those to benefit from funding from Jewson’s parent company Saint-Gobain. An additional £162,000 has already been invested in reducing the carbon emitted from other Jewson branches across the UK.
Allan Davidson, Regional Director at Jewson, commented: “The Wishaw branch is a shining example of how we take energy efficiency and sustainability seriously at Jewson. This is just the tip of the iceberg, and in the coming years you can expect to see plenty of changes and improvements being made to our branches and across our offering.”
Mike Newnham, Managing Director at Jewson, also added: “The renovation at Wishaw is just the first part of several multi-million-pound investments we’ll be making over the next three years to help accelerate our journey to becoming net zero. These investments are designed to help lower the carbon footprint of our branches, whilst also improving the spaces for both our colleagues and customers to enjoy.”
