Driving Sustainable Approaches in the Defence Sector

North is committed to making environmentally conscious decisions across our operations and sectors. As part of a major infrastructure upgrade across several MOD sites for Aspire Defence, North took an innovative approach to welfare facilities by collaborating with Advanté, a leading supplier of welfare units, to implement sustainable welfare facilities for the onsite teams. 

North was contracted by Aspire Defence on behalf of the Defence Infrastructure Organisation to upgrade and install new Defence Business Infrastructure (DBI) Wi-Fi at select Army Garrisons. This involved upgrading the network infrastructure and structured cabling and enhancing Wi-Fi capabilities to help increase operational efficiencies, heighten security and improve the wellbeing of on-site personnel. 

The innovative and sustainable Advanté EcoMax Solar welfare and office units provide instant office and meeting areas, dining, drying room and WC facilities, all while generating clean, renewable electrical power from solar panels. Powered by hybrid technology, the units generate renewable electrical power, significantly reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality - key priorities for the Defence sector.  Furthermore, the generation of renewable energy not only reduces carbon emissions but also reduces operational costs. 

Making a Real Difference 

Implementing the solar-powered welfare units into the contract design and installation has delivered significant achievements: 

Lower Carbon Footprint:  with c. 70 tonnes of emissions saved, contributing to cleaner air and less environmental and social impact. 

Cost Savings:  c. £40k in operational costs savings through reductions in fuel consumption,  

Energy Efficiency:  Averaging 97% renewable energy usage, with generator dependency averaging 3%. 

Reduced Noise Pollution:  Due to the use of renewable energy and a smart telemetry system, which lowers noise levels overnight. 

Tangible Impact Across Sites 

The EcoMax Solar welfare units achieved the following consistent results across four key installations 

• Bulford Barracks:  97.59% renewable energy usage 

• Warminster:  96.15% renewable energy usage  

• Larkhill:  98.59% renewable energy usage 

• Swinton Barracks:  96.66% renewable energy usage 

The Defence Sector demands the utmost reliability and security in critical systems. The success of this project showcases that environmental responsibility, and operational excellence can work hand in hand and demonstrates North's commitment to leading positive change while delivering benefits for the MoD, onsite team, local communities and the environment