A North East company specialising in renewable energy products has developed a unique solar device, with support from the Innovation Programme, to plug a gap in the market brought about by changes to planning regulations.
Hadrian Electrical Engineering, a Hexham basedcompany established in 2010 to install and service wind turbines and solar products, recognised a market opportunity for an innovative solar tracking system that would enable the company to expand its client base nationally.
The idea for the small ground-mounted Solar PV Tracker was borne out of changes to planning regulations which allowed tracking units of 3m sq and smaller to be installed in homes and businesses, without the need for planning permission.
Working in partnership with Ron Jamieson, a specialist in product development, Hadrian Electrical Engineering approached the North East Business and Innovation Centre’s (BIC) Innovation Programme for support in accessing funds to progress the design and development of their product idea.
Doug Martin from Hadrian Electrical Engineering, said: “We picked up on the changes in planning legislation and saw a real opportunity to develop a small solar tracking product here in the UK which could be accessible to both domestic and commercial users.”
Through the Innovation Programme Hadrian Electrical Engineering was able to access funding towards product design and prototype development utilising Mr Jamieson’s expertise.
Doug added: “The support we had from the Innovation Programme was really helpful. We were able to access valuable funds through the scheme that enabled us to kickstart our product development plans and to capitalise on the market opportunity which I believe has huge potential.”
Elizabeth Shaw, Innovation Programme Manager at the North East BIC, said: “Hadrian Electrical Engineering is a perfect example of how a business can unlock its potential by embracing innovation. The company did this successfully the first time around when it diversified from its agricultural services operation and moved into the renewables sector, and we’re delighted that with the support of the Innovation Programme, the company has been able to build on this success by bringing to market their unique solar tracking product, fully developed here in North East England.”
The Innovation Programme utilises £724,000 of ERDF investment and is part financed by the European Union’s ERDF Competitiveness Programme 2007 – 2013 to promote a step change in the region by encouraging North East Businesses to unlock their innovative potential.
To find out more about the Innovation Programme or to arrange a meeting please contact the team on 0191 516 6021, emailinnovation@ne-bic.co.uk or read more about the Innovation Programme on our Website.
