Numatic International, the company behind the iconic Henry vacuum cleaner, has received planning approval to install 943 photovoltaic panels on the roof of its factory in Chard, Somerset. The panels, expected to generate approximately 457kW at peak capacity, are set to be fitted and operational before Christmas.
Solar Panel Installation Approved for Building 34
The application, submitted in early July, covers 'Building 34' on the Millfield industrial estate at the eastern edge of Chard. This building sits between Millfield and the Tapstone Retail Park, home to the town's Greggs outlet. The site is primarily accessed via Millfield, with its own car park located a short distance south of a planned 70-bed care home, which received planning permission in May 2024.
Somerset Council granted approval using delegated powers, meaning the decision was made by planning officers rather than the planning committee south. The panels will cover a total area of 3,700 square metres.
Environmental Impact and Design Considerations
A spokesperson for SunGift Solar, acting on behalf of Numatic, said: "The proposed solar panel equipment has, as far as practicable, been sited to minimise its effect on the external appearance of the building and the amenity of the area. The equipment will be removed as soon as reasonably practicable when no longer needed. The effect of glint and glare are considered to be minimal and localised."
Planning officer Mike Farthing added: "Photovoltaic equipment is increasingly commonplace and other non-domestic buildings across the county have had similar equipment installed for many years. The equipment would be seen in the context of the existing building on which they would be installed, as well as the wider established complex. The orientation has been considered and overall, it is considered that the photovoltaic equipment, so far as practicable, would be sited so as to minimise its effect on the external appearance of the building. It does not sit close to any neighbouring properties which may adversely be impacted by glare from the proposed panels."
Context and Previous Solar Initiatives
Numatic International operates across several buildings within the Millfield industrial estate, providing employment for approximately 1,200 local residents. The company previously obtained approval in March 2025 to construct its own solar farm at the eastern edge of the estate, adjacent to land safeguarded for part of the long-anticipated Chard eastern relief road (ERR). That site was initially designated for a research and development facility, but priorities shifted following Numatic's acquisition and redevelopment of the former Oscar Mayer site within the existing industrial estate.
The Building 34 solar panel installation represents a further step in Numatic's commitment to renewable energy, with the potential to reduce the factory's carbon footprint and energy costs. The panels are expected to be operational before the end of the year, contributing to the region's clean energy capacity.
