THE High Sherriff for Herefordshire officially opened the new premises of a county supplier of renewable energy equipment.

Wind & Sun, an established distributor of solar (PV) and battery storage systems, launched its new ‘Renewable Energy Centre of Excellence’ with an open day last week.

The event was launched by the High Sheriff for Herefordshire Bill Jackson, accompanied by the Mayor of Leominster Angela Pendleton with Deputy Mayor Roger Pendleton and Councillor Clive Thomas.

Wind & Sun managing director Steve Wade gave a tour of the site which is located at the well-known premises formerly occupied by Shepherds Stores in Upper Hill near Leominster.

Building conversion work was completed earlier this year and was supported by the European Regional Growth Fund through a Redundant Building Grant.

Mr Wade said: “We had begun seeking more space outside the county, so are very pleased with the new site as it has enabled us to establish a local resource for our industry that is unique in the UK.

“After 18 successful years in Herefordshire, I’m delighted we have been able to take steps to ensure our premises can continue to grow with us and we look forward to welcoming many more visitors.”

In addition to warehousing, offices and trade counter the new training academy offers a programme of regular courses which has already been attracting visitors to Herefordshire from all over the UK and abroad.

This year, goods have been despatched around the world to destinations from the Falkland Islands to villages in Africa and Sri Lanka.

The refurbishment incorporates solar electricity systems, rain water harvesting, wood chip heating and energy efficient LED lighting to enable virtual self-sufficiency while soft landscaping is encouraging the return of wildlife and there is electric vehicle charging for staff and visitors – providing a template for sustainable rural businesses.

Visitors to the event were able to speak to local installers as well as see the latest products and gain advice from the company’s resident technical experts.