Lloyds Bank “greases the wheels” of Leeds manufacturing firm’s sustainability journey

A Leeds based manufacturer is drastically reducing its carbon emissions, thanks to the installation of a new ‘state-of-the-art’ solar energy system.

Kingfisher Lubrication, a manufacturer of high-quality grease fittings, is taking a big step in its sustainability journey by installing a ‘cutting-edge’ solar PV system across approximately one third of its roof space. This move will not only take the edge off the firm’s energy bills, but also enable Kingfisher to power 30 per cent of its production with renewable energy.

The energy savings will assist in freeing up cash to invest in its 46-strong workforce and ensure an even greener and happier place to work. Since transitioning to employee ownership in 2020, Kingfisher has been focusing even more on implementing feedback from its employees, with sustainability coming out high on the agenda.

Kingfisher is now diving headfirst into another investment project aimed at bolstering its energy-efficient machinery, meaning the company can begin to say goodbye to high carbon emitting techniques common in manufacturing processes. From LED lighting and extensive recycling efforts, Kingfisher is “leading the charge in going green”.

Helped along by funding from Lloyds Bank’s Clean Growth Financing Initiative, arming the manufacturer with substantial support for the solar panels and eco-friendly machinery, Kingfisher is catapulting its 150-year-old business into an electrifying new phase of sustainability and innovation.

Helen Thornley, Financial Director and Company Secretary at Kingfisher Lubrication, commented: “We’re well aware of the need for the manufacturing industry to lower its carbon footprint and we have been working hard to bring down our emissions where we can, with solar energy high on our green wish list. 

“But with tight budgets and energy costs shooting up, that’s been difficult to make happen. With Lloyds Bank’s support, we now have the foundations in place to make our ambitions a reality. We knew we needed support for the next leg of our journey. 

“Thanks to Lloyds Bank’s funding, and our solar installation partner Heatsource Direct, we can now get 30 per cent of our electricity from solar sources, save money and meet the environmental needs of our clients. It is comforting to know the bank is consistently there for us, ready to lend a hand whenever we want to grow and become more eco-friendly.”

Scott Hickling, Relationship Manager at Lloyds Bank, added: “We're committed to standing alongside Kingfisher as they continue to contribute to making the manufacturing sector that little bit greener, and we support others on the same journey."