When Westcotec, an employee-owned business based in Dereham, Norfolk, decided to take a big step towards sustainability, they turned to us, for help. Having heard glowing feedback through networking connections and knowing of our strong reputation, Managing Director Chris Spinks felt confident they would be in safe hands.

Founded on the ethos of innovation and responsibility, Westcotec employs 23 people and operates from two connected buildings on an industrial estate. Specialising in the design and manufacture of intelligent traffic safety systems, the company generates an annual turnover of around £4.5 million. With sustainability now playing an increasingly important role in both ethical practice and winning commercial tenders, Chris saw solar panels as a logical step towards net zero, and a valuable asset for the future.

Q: What made you consider solar panels for your property?
We are very focused on sustainability both from an ethical perspective and also from a commercial point of view more and more tenders require information about carbon reduction, so solar was an obvious step to take towards net zero. We run several plug-in hybrid vehicles, including vans, so this will also support those additions.

Q: How did you hear about us?
Through a networking connection.

Q: What made you choose to finance the solar panels instead of purchasing outright?
The interest rate was so competitive that it was exactly the right decision from a capital reserve protection perspective.

Q: How did we support you in the process?
At every stage of the process — once we had chosen the installer, they took over everything. It was seamless and so easy.

Q: How did the financing process align with the timeline of your solar panel installation?
Finance was agreed and paid to the installer upfront ahead of the arranged date for the project to start.

Q: Did you find the documentation and approval process straightforward?
Yes, very, and help was on hand if needed.

Q: What benefits have you seen since installing the solar panels?
It supports our journey to net zero, reduces energy bills, and enhances our carbon credentials for sustainability sections in Local Authority tenders. It's also simply the right thing to do.

Q: How would you describe your experience working with us?
Flawless, really nice, engaging, and patient people. No question ever felt silly to ask. The process was really efficient, and the team clearly know their stuff, which made it so smooth and stress-free.

Q: What advice would you give to other businesses considering financing solar panels?
Go for it.

A huge thank-you to Chris and the whole Westcotec team for putting their trust in us. If your business is looking to finance solar or other sustainable projects, talk to us. We make the process simple.