British garden equipment manufacturer and distributor Handy has taken a major step in its sustainability journey with the installation of a state-of-the-art solar power and storage system at its Swindon headquarters. The project reflects Handy’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact, improving operational efficiency, and leading innovation in the garden machinery sector.

At the heart of the project is the Solis 50 kW hybrid inverter, paired with 20 kW of battery storage. This innovative technology, one of the first installations of its kind in the UK, enables Handy to store surplus energy for later use, power its entire HQ, and reduce reliance on the grid. The system is managed via the Solis Cloud platform, giving Handy access to detailed monthly reports, live performance data, and historic records, allowing real-time tracking of usage, savings, and energy strategy.

Since going live in 2024, Handy’s solar and battery system has delivered substantial clean electricity to its Swindon headquarters. The 194 high-performance 435 W UK solar panels have generated a total of 51,066 kWh, with 76% (approximately 38,788 kWh) directly consumed on-site and 24% (around 12,278 kWh) exported to the National Grid. In addition, 3,376 kWh has been drawn from the 20 kW battery to further supplement operations. Overall, around 60% of Handy’s total electricity consumption of 76,763 kWh has come from renewable sources, while the remainder was imported from the grid. According to Handy’s Solis Cloud monitoring platform, the system has already delivered significant energy and export benefits since installation, helping the business reduce its environmental impact and reliance on the grid.

“This investment is about more than just reducing costs,” said Steve Bartlett Managing Director. “By being one of the first commercial companies in the UK to deploy a 50 kW Solis hybrid with battery storage, we’re demonstrating Handy’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and leadership in our industry. It’s an investment in the future of our business, our customers and the environment.”

The system, installed by WRB Group in November 2024, was completed in just one week, with no disruption to production or day-to-day operations.

This new solar and storage installation is the latest step in its long-term sustainability strategy, which aims to reduce environmental impact, improve efficiency and set a positive example for the garden machinery sector.

“From the very start, we worked closely with the team at Handy to design a system that met their exact needs,” said Hugh McManus, Managing Director at WRB Group. “Our in-house team developed a tailored solution and completed the installation within a week, with minimal disruption to their operations. It was a pleasure to work with Handy on this project. After a full handover, we continue to support them to ensure the system delivers maximum performance and long-term value. This project shows what’s possible when organisations take a proactive approach to energy, and we look forward to helping more businesses across the UK and Ireland realise the benefits of renewable solutions.”

A family-owned company for more than 80 years, Handy operates from a purpose-built 70,000 sq. ft Swindon site, home to more than 45 staff. It’s garden machinery brands include Webb Garden Power and The Handy, and it is a distributor for other well known brands, including Greenworks. 

For more information on garden machinery manufacturer Handy, go to handys.co.uk or visit Solar PV Supplier & Installer WRB Group www.wrbni.uk