FORFAR-based manufacturer Ramsay Ladders has installed a solar PV system as part of the firm’s plans to reduce its carbon footprint, strengthen energy resilience, and support the continued modernisation of its manufacturing facilities.
The 36 kWp rooftop solar PV system, delivered by Forster Group, is projected to generate approximately 29,450 kWh of clean energy annually, with estimated first-year CO₂ savings of 5,890 kg. The system is tipped to pay for itself within seven years.
Founded in 1771, Ramsay Ladders has evolved from producing weavers’ reeds and combs for local factories to becoming a supplier of ladders, steps and bespoke access solutions. Today, most of its products are manufactured on-site to serve a range of industries requiring solutions for working at height.
Matthew Lowson, finance manager at Ramsay Ladders, said, “We’ve been focusing on modernising our business over the last few years, making our operations more efficient while also future-proofing our factory for the next stage of growth. The introduction of new technology, such as our Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining centre in 2021, has significantly increased our energy demands. With further machinery upgrades planned over the next five years, we recognised the need to invest in a more sustainable and cost-efficient energy solution.”
The installation was supported via the Angus Innovation and Growth Business Grant, funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
John Forster, chair and founder of Forster Group, added, “The benefits of integrating solar energy into businesses go well beyond cost savings. It’s a crucial step toward long-term sustainability and resilience. In today’s world of increasingly unpredictable energy markets, Scotland’s business community has a real opportunity to lead the way in decentralised, sustainable energy generation. Technology is no longer the limiting factor; the challenge now lies in improving awareness, easing grid access and ensuring consistent policy support.”
