19
Apr 2026
22nd Apr 2026
Rowan Precision has strengthened its commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency following the successful completion of a major energy efficiency project, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term Net Zero strategy.
The Birmingham-based precision engineering specialist secured grant funding in late 2025 to support the initiative, which has already begun delivering measurable reductions in both energy consumption and carbon emissions.
The project represents the culmination of a determined two-year effort. After narrowly missing out on funding through the Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) programme in 2024, Rowan Precision renewed its focus in 2025, taking part in the Future Fit Manufacturing Cohort delivered by Oxford Innovation.
That programme proved pivotal, providing not only strategic direction but also valuable collaboration opportunities and industry connections that helped shape the company’s approach to energy reduction.
A key turning point came during an “Energy Efficiency in Action” session hosted by Thomas Dudley Ltd, where Rowan Precision connected with energy specialist Nersi Salehi of ProEnviro Limited. That relationship would go on to play a central role in preparing the business for funding approval and successful project delivery.
Following a detailed site assessment, ProEnviro developed a comprehensive Energy Assessment Report, identifying five potential areas for improvement. Rowan Precision moved forward with four key initiatives:
- Installation of LED lighting systems
- Deployment of an Automated Monitoring & Targeting (aM&T) system
- Installation of a Solar PV array
- Upgrade to a modern, energy-efficient compressor
Together, these measures are projected to reduce energy consumption by more than 104,000 kWh per year, alongside an annual carbon saving of 23.63 tonnes of CO₂e.
Glenn Aston, Chief Financial Officer at Rowan Precision, said the project reflects a clear alignment between sustainability and long-term business performance.
“Manufacturing businesses like ours are under increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact while remaining globally competitive,” he said.
“This project demonstrates that with the right partnerships, data and investment, you can achieve both. We are building a more efficient, resilient operation for the future.”
Grant approval was secured in December 2025, with implementation completed at pace in early 2026 through collaboration with a network of specialist partners, including Ryan Goodswen Electrical Ltd, Custom Energy Solutions, SRC Northwest and West Midlands Compressors.
Early results from the solar installation are already encouraging. Between mid-February and the end of March 2026, the system generated 6,458 kWh of clean electricity, avoiding 1.14 tonnes of CO₂e. This is equivalent to the carbon absorption of approximately 50 trees.
Aston added: “What is particularly encouraging is how quickly we are seeing tangible results. The solar generation figures alone show the immediate impact these investments can have, both environmentally and commercially.”
Rowan Precision also acknowledged the support of Sue A Jones, Senior Business Officer at Birmingham City Council, for her role in managing the grant process.
The initiative builds on the company’s broader commitment to responsible manufacturing, where energy efficiency, process optimisation and sustainable investment are increasingly central to delivering high-quality precision components to customers in demanding sectors.
As UK manufacturers continue to balance cost pressures with environmental responsibility, Rowan Precision’s latest investment highlights how targeted action and collaboration can drive meaningful progress towards Net Zero while strengthening long-term competitiveness.