A leading manufacturer from Dudley borough has cut its energy costs by 25% with grant support from Business Growth West Midlands in Dudley.
Alloy Wire International (AWI), which produces high-performance round, flat and profile wire for more than 15 global sectors, made use of UK Government funding on offer via Dudley Council to invest in solar panels for its factory in Brierley Hill. Finance director Adam Shaw reached out to Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) in Dudley for support after the firm encountered a four-fold increase in its energy costs due to rising wholesale electricity prices across Europe.
BGWM in Dudley adviser Donna Watkins worked closely with the company to carry out a detailed business review and develop an action plan. Following an energy audit with ProEnviro, several straightforward improvements were recommended, including an upgrade to the plant’s lighting system, which is now fully LED compared to 70% previously.
The most significant change was the installation of 425 solar panels on the roof of their factory by Smart Solar. The solar panels supply all of their output directly to the plant’s furnaces, which must operate continuously to avoid damage.
To make these improvements more affordable, AWI received the Dudley Net Zero Grant, which provides 50% matched funding for investment in energy efficiency measures through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The business has now reduced its energy costs by approximately 25%, a crucial saving amid challenging market conditions.
AWI have also benefited from the Dudley SME Grant, which provided match funding for a specialist linishing machine worth nearly £60,000. The machine produces smoother, high-performance wiring for use in tougher conditions.
This investment was vital to meet the requirements of a major automotive client, helping AWI to process bigger orders at the factory despite the rising cost of raw materials. The firm sells to more than 60 countries around the world, with exports now accounting for 55% of its £17.5m annual turnover.
Adam Shaw, finance director of Alloy Wire International, said: “Sustainability is a big focus for our business, and we are keen to lead the world when it comes to manufacturing wire that has a minimal impact on the environment.
“The support we have received from Business Growth West Midlands in Dudley and Dudley Council has helped us accelerate several investments in more efficient LED lighting, solar power and new linishing capability. This is a real win-win for AWI.
“We are boosting our sustainable performance, whilst also reducing operating costs, meaning we can remain competitive with our international rivals and can channel some of the savings into staff development and new equipment.” Donna Watkins, Business Growth West Midlands in Dudley adviser, said: “Alloy Wire International is just the kind of forward-thinking, high-performing business we’re proud to support through the Business Growth West Midlands programme.
“Their ambition to lead on a global scale, combined with a relentless commitment to innovation - from advanced alloys to cutting-edge production techniques - makes them a stand-out manufacturer in the region. It’s been inspiring to work alongside a team so driven to grow, not just in size, but in capability and sustainability.
