Lee Strand Co-op takes control of its energy use
Lee Strand Co-Operative, a milk processing plant in Tralee, Co. Kerry, takes control of its energy use by installing an energy monitoring system and investing in Solar PV.
About Lee Strand
Lee Strand Co-Operative is owned by its farmer shareholders and employing over 100 people across its various business units. Lee Strand enjoys an excellent relationship with the community and supports many community, sporting, and charitable organisations and events.
Limited visibility into energy use
Although Lee Strand is a significant energy user, it lacked clear visibility into how much energy was being consumed, where it was being used, and when demand was highest. With energy costs continuing to rise and customers increasingly expecting transparency around sustainability performance, Lee Strand partnered with a local company to identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption, lower operating costs, and support its environmental sustainability goals.
Energy use monitoring and measurement
In 2024, Lee Strand installed a comprehensive monitoring and measurement system in its facility with the support of Enterprise Ireland. This resulted in immediate energy savings of over 12%. Following on from this, the company invested in a maximum‑efficiency roof‑mounted solar project.
Why inaction carries significant risk
For a business, the stakes of inaction in reducing energy consumption are significant. Failing to improve efficiency can lead to rising operating costs, greater exposure to energy price increases, and increased risk of disruption from extreme weather and power instability. It can also create compliance challenges as regulations tighten and reporting expectations grow. Over time, businesses that do not take action may lose competitive ground to more efficient companies, while also damaging customer trust, investor confidence, and overall brand reputation.
Using metering data to inform Solar PV investment
Following the installation of metering, Lee Strand began a project to install a roof‑mounted solar PV array. The metering data proved invaluable in accurately sizing the system, as it provided a clear understanding of the site’s energy usage profile and load patterns. The project commenced in February 2025 under the management of a local consultant, DCS Group. More than 400 panels were installed, delivering a total capacity of 250 kWp.
Securing SEAI funding
Lee Strand applied for the SEAI’s Non‑Domestic Microgen Grant and received immediate approval. The SEAI funding of just over €50,000 made a significant contribution to the overall project cost and helped accelerate the board’s decision to proceed. Without the grant, the project may have been delayed for a considerable period.
Without hesitation, I would encourage other businesses to invest in solar, but the first step should always be installing metering. Metering provides vital insight into energy profiles and usage patterns throughout the working week, ensuring any solar system is correctly sized and delivers maximum benefit. We are already seeing the clear impact of solar through reduced utility bills, and it has also helped protect us against future increases in energy prices. I would strongly recommend engaging an experienced energy project manager to oversee the full process, including support with SEAI grants and available funding. With an attractive return on investment and the long-term advantages of lower energy costs and reduced reliance on the grid, it is a smart and sustainable decision.
Energy savings and performance results
As a direct result of the metering installation, Lee Strand reduced overall electricity consumption by more than 12% through targeted operational changes, including adjustments to compressors, temperature settings, and time schedules. Following the solar PV installation in February 2025, a comparison of May 2024 and May 2025 shows that the system supplied an average of 33% of the site’s electrical load, delivering a significant reduction in energy costs.
Additional benefits beyond cost savings
Beyond the measurable energy and cost savings, the metering and solar installation has delivered several additional benefits. The project has increased employee awareness of the importance of reducing energy consumption, including switching off equipment when leaving the site. It has also supported Lee Strand in maintaining its Gold Membership with Origin Green by contributing to the achievement of annual environmental targets. Most importantly, it has demonstrated to customers and the local community that the company is committed to reducing its environmental impact. Lee Strand depends on a healthy and sustainable environment so that its suppliers—its farmers—can continue providing the highest quality milk, as they have done for more than 100 years.
Easy wins for lower energy bills
Cut your energy costs and reduce carbon emissions with SEAI business grants and supports. With rapid approval grants you can start cutting your energy costs in minutes!
Grants include:
- Solar thermal and solar PV.
- Building fabric upgrades.
- Heating and cooling upgrades.
- Technical assistance.
We understand that all businesses are individual. Some projects require more specific grant consideration. Tailored supports are based on your specific project, paying out a percentage of your investment.