07/07/2025: Council and Watton business collaborate on solar panel installation

A Watton business has worked closely with the council landlord to install solar panels at its headquarters, which are expected to generate savings of more than £350k.

Machined Precision Components (MPC) Ltd, located in Watton, rents its site from Breckland Council. MPC Ltd approached Breckland Council with the proposal to install solar panels on the building, creating not only environmental benefits but also reducing their energy costs significantly. The projected savings for MPC Ltd are significant, with an estimated £15,000 saving in the first year alone and potential net savings of £370,000 over the panels' 20-year life span.

The council owns office and warehouse space across the district and rents them to local businesses. This scheme is the first of its kind, where tenant and landlord have worked together to install solar panels on a commercial property.

As the landlord, Breckland Council helped to facilitate the installation by consulting with industry experts, engaging with insurance providers, and ensured all legal and procedural requirements were met. The solar panels and their installation were paid for by MPC Ltd, which will reap the benefits of the energy savings.

Lee Hunton, one of the owners of MPC Ltd, added: "Breckland Council has been supportive every step of the way. It's great to see the solar panels mounted and know that our business is not only doing its bit for the environment but also helping reduce overall running costs."

For more information on this initiative or to inquire about similar opportunities, please contact Breckland Council's Commercial Property team at property@breckland.gov.uk