Raising a Glass to the Sun: Oakham Ales Brews First Solar-Powered Beer
A beloved name in British brewing is going greener than ever. Oakham Ales, based in Peterborough, is preparing to launch its first beer brewed using solar power following the successful installation of a cutting-edge rooftop solar PV system.
The beer, aptly named Sun City, will be a 3.7% blonde ale brewed with Nelson Sauvin and Nectaron hops from New Zealand – and it marks a bold new chapter in the brewery’s commitment to sustainability.
Brewing with the Power of the Sun
The solar transformation was delivered by renewable energy developer Electron Green, who completed the rooftop system earlier this year. Covering 2,084 square metres of upgraded roofing with over 1,000 photovoltaic panels, the 458.85 kWp solar array was no small feat.
For Oakham Ales, the transition to solar energy had long been hindered by its ageing roof. But Electron Green’s innovative model overcame this challenge by supplying not just solar panels, but also a full steel overclad roofing system – all at zero upfront cost to Oakham Ales.
Instead of paying for the installation, the brewery now benefits from a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which sees Electron Green own and manage the system while supplying discounted, fixed-rate solar electricity.
The outcome is immediate and impressive: a projected 15% reduction in reliance on grid electricity, estimated first-year savings of nearly £11,000, and a long-term environmental benefit equating to over 2,200 tonnes of carbon emissions prevented over the system’s lifespan.
A Collaboration Worth Toasting
The entire project was orchestrated with support from Oakham Ales’ energy consultancy partner, CUB UK Ltd, who introduced them to Electron Green.
The brewery’s former head brewer, who oversaw the project before his retirement, hailed the installation as a huge step in making Oakham Ales more sustainable. His legacy is sealed with Sun City – Oakham’s first-ever solar-powered brew, due to hit the taps in August.
In celebration of the installation’s completion, the Electron Green team joined the Oakham Ales brewers to help produce the inaugural batch of Sun City, which will be served on cask to pubs and venues across the United Kingdom.
The launch is not only a proud technical milestone, but a symbolic one too – representing a shift in how heritage brands can embrace innovation without compromising their identity.
Brewing Progress Without Disruption
The brewery’s new head brewer praised Electron Green’s efforts, noting that the entire process was managed with no disruption to their brewing schedule over the spring.
They added that it’s great that their business has upgraded its environmental credentials so massively without having to spend a penny in capital expenditure. They are proud to be brewing beer with a significantly smaller carbon footprint – and they are especially looking forward to raising a glass of Sun City in celebration.
Electron Green’s CEO and founder echoed the sentiment, calling the project a glorious swoop in helping Oakham Ales reduce both energy costs and carbon impact.
As energy demands are expected to rise by 50% over the next decade, businesses need greater control over costs and more confidence in supply, and they are there to provide that flexibility.
A Golden Future for Green Brewing
Oakham Ales’ leap into solar-powered brewing is more than a clever nod to sustainability – it’s a shining example of how tradition and technology can work hand in hand.
With Sun City soon making its debut in pubs, and a state-of-the-art solar energy system quietly powering the brewery behind the scenes, Oakham Ales is showing the industry what future-ready brewing really looks like.
So, next time you find yourself ordering a pint, look out for Sun City – and know that with every sip, you’re not just tasting award-winning craftsmanship, but a toast to a greener future.
News Credits: Oakham Ales brews first solar-powered beer
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