Industry News

Sustainability is at the heart of Henkel’s corporate strategy and pioneering spirit, which is why it is transforming its UK head office to use renewable energy – helping to create a more sustainable office, as well as reduce energy costs. 

As a leader in sustainability, Henkel is continuously looking at ways it can reduce its impact on the environment across the whole supply chain. From sourcing ingredients, to manufacturing and logistics, through to energy sources.

The project to bring renewable energy to the UK head office, led by Victoria Hampstead, HSC country manager UKI, saw the installation of nearly 300 solar panels on one building, which has generated 96,000kWh of electricity in its first year.

“Renewable energy is a major driver in the fight against climate change. For Henkel, the switch to non-carbon energy sources is one of the main levers in our efforts to become a ‘climate positive’ company by 2040,” explains Victoria. “In July 2021, the pandemic restrictions were being removed but most Henkel colleagues were still working from home. We therefore used the opportunity to install solar panels on our UK head office building without disrupting our operations or teams.”

Since the panels have been added, the UK head office has saved 23 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. “At the start of the project, it was estimated that Henkel would recoup the investment in five years,” points out Victoria. “However, with the dramatic increase in electricity costs, the panels will pay back as soon as 18 months. Savings for the forthcoming year are expected to be approximately GB£70,000.”

Following the success of this project, Victoria is leading an initiative to consider the feasibility of extending solar energy projects to other Henkel sites in the UK and Ireland. “I hope to build on the success of the UK head office renewable energy project, and also look at other sustainability initiatives to support Henkel’s 2030+ sustainability strategy.”