A Cornwall-based manufacturer has started to build a new environmentally-friendly factory and is set to create 150 jobs.
Truro’s ground source heat pump manufacturer Kensa Heat Pumps has started work on a new 900sq m manufacturing and office facility on its current site at the former Mount Wellington Mine.
Coinciding with its 20year anniversary, the new premises will see Kensa produce 30,000 pumps every year, providing carbon savings equivalent to taking 60,000 cars off the road.
The privately-funded expansion, due for completion in 2020, will make Kensa the largest low carbon business in Cornwall.
With an existing market share of near 50%, Kensa forecasts annual growth of about 50% as the Government introduces regulations to outlaw the use of high-carbon fossil fuels, particularly in new-build housing in just six years time.
Ground source heat pumps offer lower cost heat than mains gas, and are the lowest carbon heating technology.
Like Kensa’s current factory, the new premises will have underfloor heating and hot water fed by a ground source heat pump harnessing heat from water from the flooded mine workings below.
James Standley, managing director of Kensa Heat Pumps, said: “Kensa’s new manufacturing facility provides us with the capability to build on what we started here in Cornwall 20 years ago, and make a huge impact on the UK’s transition to a low carbon economy.
“Whilst we are the UK’s number one ground source heat pump supplier for the seventh consecutive year, we remain proudly Cornish, with a strong local workforce and infrastructure.
“As pioneers for renewables back in 1999, it is testament to the Kensa Group’s quality, service, and expertise, that we will now be the largest, privately funded, renewable business in the county.”
Sarah Newton, Tory MP for Truro and Falmouth, said: “It has been a pleasure to watch Kensa grow over the past decade. I am delighted they continue to create well-paid jobs in Cornwall.
“Ground source heat pumps will play an increasingly significant role in meeting the Government’s 2030 net zero carbon target.”
The proposed plans for the expansion received support from the community, said Kevin Furnish, chairman of Gwennap Parish Council:
“Kensa is one of the largest employers in Gwennap and we are pleased the innovation we have hitherto seen will continue and grow.
“We are also happy Kensa will soon be starting apprentice training which will grow local skills in this vital industry.We hope to support a community-level energy project between Kensa and the parish.”
Architectural firm D3 Architects helped visualise Kensa’s ambitions with a design blending with the former mining site’s renovated buildings.
Simon Longworth-Riggs, owner of D3 Architects, said: “Being environmentally conscious architects it is great to be helping a successful Cornish firm to grow; especially as it will help so many save energy. This is one of those rare projects that is both good for our client and the planet.”
A finance package from HSBC has been provided for the new premises. Mark Self, HSBC UK’s business banking area director for Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, said: “We’re committed to helping sustainability businesses thrive, so it’s been fantastic to see Kensa expand its facilities to react to increasing demand for more eco-friendly heating systems.
“This is particularly pertinent as the UK commits to becoming carbon neutral by 2050. We’re looking forward to seeing the new factory take shape as the business continues to grow and invest in the local area.”
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