Llaeth y Llan is set to generate around 92,000 kWh of renewable electricity a year, following the installation of 210 solar panels.
The family-owned food producer can now generate more of its own electricity to power production and packaging operations, reducing its exposure to fluctuating energy costs and freeing up savings for reinvestment. The solar panels were installed with funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), through Conwy County Borough Council’s Supporting Local Business Key Fund.
Based in Llanefydd, Llaeth y Llan is surrounded by farmland, with all the milk for its popular yoghurt products supplied by eight local farms. The food production business was founded by Gareth and Falmai Roberts in 1985, with their son, Owain Roberts, now at the helm as Managing Director.
Owain said:
“The investment is helping us have greater control over our long-term energy costs. As well as generating 17% of our own electricity, we’ve also been able to save money and reinvest it into expanding our product range. We are passionate about providing our customers with high-quality products and are always looking at ways to be innovative. Generating our own energy is part of our ethos and will help us deliver that.
“Receiving this funding marked an important step towards our target of becoming net zero and self-sufficient when it comes to energy by 2050. We wouldn’t have been able to install these solar panels without the support.”
The Supporting Local Business Key Fund ran from 2023 – 2026. Its aim was to strengthen the local economy, create new opportunities and jobs. Since its launch, the Council has distributed nearly £4 million to 117 businesses across the county.
Councillor Sharon Doleman, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Economy and Communications at Conwy County Borough Council, said:
“It’s fantastic to see the positive impact that UKSPF support has already had for so many businesses including Llaeth y Llan, and we’re delighted to have contributed to this success. Working alongside our partners, we’ve been able to invest millions in local businesses – we look forward to seeing the legacy of this funding continue to benefit the economy in Conwy for many years.”
The Business Key Fund has now closed to future applications, marking the completion of a programme that has delivered significant investment and practical support to businesses across Conwy. Through the fund, businesses have been able to invest in equipment, improve productivity, create jobs and explore more sustainable ways of working, helping to support a stronger local economy.
As the programme concludes, Conwy County Borough Council is looking ahead to future opportunities to continue supporting business growth and development. The Council is awaiting confirmation of any successor funding streams and will provide further updates as soon as more information becomes available.
