THE retail group behind Celtic & Co., Frugi, Turtle Doves, and Kettlewell, has completed a solar installation at its Indian Queens headquarters in Cornwall.

Refined Brands, which unites high quality, ethical British brands in a digital-first portfolio, employs around 180 people in the county.

Working with Wadebridge-based CleanEarth, the installation is set to reduce the group’s carbon emissions by 16 tonnes of CO2e annually. The 180 rooftop solar modules, installed on existing buildings, are also expected to significantly cut energy costs, all while minimising impact on the natural environment.

The group’s head of operations, Karl Headleand, said: “Solar energy is something we’ve been exploring for many years. Recently, two brands within the group achieved B Corp accreditation – a recognition of our commitment to people and the planet. We’re keen to continue this sustainable momentum across the business, so now felt like the right time to invest in renewable energy.

"Thanks to CleanEarth, we’ve been able to complete this installation with an impressive two-year payback. We also estimate it will save us over £15,000 on energy bills each year.”

With 800 wind turbine and solar PV installations across the UK, CleanEarth’s projects represent a generating capacity of 155 Gigawatts - equivalent to powering 47,000 homes and saving the UK over 50,000 tonnes of carbon emissions every year.

Commercial manager at CleanEarth, Jamie Johnstone, said: "The team at Refined Brands has demonstrated deep commitment to sustainability with this installation, doing their part to bring Cornwall closer to its 2030 Net Zero goal.

“Their new system will see their carbon emissions reduced by 370 tonnes cumulatively over 25 years, which will have a very real impact not just for their bottom-line but the county. We’re proud to add this project to our portfolio of Cornish clients.”