A red and white logo for s & a fabrications ltd

How can your building help reduce energy costs?

Ali Bell • August 24, 2023

We have all seen the effects of energy price increases over the last few years, no one more so than farmers and particularly when it comes to the costs associated with running grain dryers.

Nostell Estate in West Yorkshire were no different, so when it came to building their new grain store, S&A Fabrications were given the task of looking at how they could use the building to reduce costs.


Collaborating with Tornum Ltd, the new facility would boast a 30tph indoor drier, integrated with Skandia Elevator equipment and the Tornum AB Intelligent Drier Control (IDC) software. In addition, Tornum also supplied a low volume aeration system and the innovative Barn Owl ventilation application to ensure the optimal condition of the grain whilst in storage.


The building itself was designed by S&A and had a roof width of 25metres, creating a 1699 metre square area. At this point the solution became obvious. Teaming up with specialist solar installers, 418 solar photo voltaic panels were planned and put in place. By using the edge protection and netting already in place for the build team installing the roof, a smooth transition of work was enabled, saving costs on the installation.


The whole renewables package is completely unseen from the ground below and means that Nostell will be able to run their grain handling system, almost completely free of any energy costs, for many years to come.


With grants often available for such projects, there has never been a better time for introducing renewable energy solutions. S&A are now recommending any farmer looking at a new grainstore, or any building, no matter the size, to consider adding solar panels and to do it right at the start of the process, to allow for maximum cost savings.


For more information, contact Simon at S&A.



By Ali Bell October 3, 2024
S&A Fabrications were thrilled to attend the opening of Airbourne Colour’s cutting-edge hangar at Teesside International Airport. The grand event was attended by over 200 guests, including key business leaders and regional stakeholders, celebrating this significant achievement for both the aviation industry and the local economy. 
June 27, 2024
At S&A Fabrications, we have recently transitioned our factory workers to a 4-day working week, a strategic move that has led to remarkable improvements in both productivity and employee satisfaction.
May 14, 2024
In the realm of construction, ensuring the safety and security of structures is paramount. From residential buildings to commercial complexes, every edifice needs robust fire protection measures in place to safeguard lives and property. At S&A Fabrications, we take this responsibility seriously, constantly exploring innovative solutions to elevate construction standards. In our latest project - a farm shop - the application of intumescent paint to the internal steel structure marks a significant stride towards enhancing fire safety.
May 9, 2024
The government has announced significant changes to permitted development rights (PDRs) for farmers, with updates effective from May 21st, 2024. These changes, as outlined by Wilson Wraight and the CLA, promise to revolutionise the landscape for agricultural development, offering tangible benefits for farmers across the UK. The latest amendments to permitted development rights herald a new era of opportunity and efficiency for farmers, with a key highlight being the reduction in planning costs. Wilson Wraight's analysis underscores the significance of this benefit, which is poised to alleviate financial burdens and streamline development processes for farmers nationwide. By eliminating or reducing the need for costly planning applications in certain scenarios, the revised PDRs empower farmers to undertake development projects with greater ease and affordability. This cost-saving measure not only frees up valuable resources but also fosters a more conducive environment for innovation, expansion, and sustainability within the agricultural sector. Moreover, the benefits of reduced planning costs extend beyond individual farm operations to encompass broader economic and community impacts. As farmers reinvest savings into farm improvements, equipment upgrades, and sustainability initiatives, the ripple effects are felt throughout rural economies, driving growth, job creation, and prosperity in agricultural communities. According to the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), the alterations bring a mix of good news and disappointments, highlighting concerns over the impact on farmers in Protected Landscapes as Ministers rejected a proposal to extend Class Q into these areas. As a trusted provider of agricultural solutions, S&A Fabrications celebrates the positive impact of the new changes to permitted development rights for farmers. The reduction in planning costs marks a significant step forward in empowering farmers to realise their development goals and unlock the full potential of their land. Farmers are encouraged to explore the opportunities presented by the revised PDRs and leverage the expertise and support offered by S&A Fabrications to navigate these changes effectively. Together, we can seize the benefits of reduced planning costs to drive innovation, sustainability, and prosperity in the agricultural sector. For more information on how the revised PDRs can benefit your farm and how S&A Fabrications can support your development needs, visit S&A Fabrications today. Source: Wilson Wraight & CLA
By Ali Bell March 26, 2024
S&A Fabrications Welcomes Martin Worthington as Business Development Executive
By Ali Bell February 6, 2024
Due to significant growth and following a number of large contract wins, three exciting opportunities have arisen for a Business Development Executive, Structural Engineer and Draftsperson to join our team and play an important part in the continued growth of our business.
By Ali Bell December 6, 2023
Generating profit from beef cattle relies on maximising growth rates and feed conversion, but neither will happen to the degree that is necessary, unless the environment for the animals is right from an early age, all the way through to the final finishing stages. Despite this, very few farm buildings provide the consistent level of ventilation that is necessary to ensure a sufficiently good airflow, to maximise health and contentment.
By Ali Bell November 24, 2023
S&A Fabrications is poised to revolutionise its operations with the integration of Tekla PowerFab, a cutting-edge fabrication management software. This innovative solution promises to elevate the factory’s efficiency, accuracy, and overall productivity in unprecedented ways.
By Ali Bell July 3, 2023
S&A Fabrications has been chosen to build a new hangar as part of a key expansion of Teesside International Airport.
By Rob Brown June 15, 2023
Imagine being able to run your grain handling system, almost completely free of any energy costs. That’s exactly what this customer will be able to do, having just installed 418 solar panels to their new 25m wide grain store. 
More Posts
Share by: