Empowering sustainability through strategic collaboration
The client
EliteForm Manufacturing Limited, based in Ireland, has a proud history dating back to its founding in 1974 as V. Whyte & Son Ltd.
Originally specialising in farm machinery repairs, the company developed into a precision engineering firm, rebranding in 2003 to EliteForm Manufacturing. Today, they are recognised for their custom sheet metal fabrication, and have contributed to multiple high-profile projects, including the Aviva and Tottenham Hotspur stadiums.
Under the leadership of Managing Director, Sandra Byrne, the firm employs 75 staff and remains true to its roots as a passionate, family-run business. The company combines innovation with a commitment to quality and sustainability, holding ISO 900 and ISO 14001 certification and is actively working toward ISO 45001.
The challenge
EliteForm Manufacturing has long prioritised investment in sustainability, with Sandra exploring solar power as early as 2006, however, high upfront costs made it difficult to progress. As energy prices surged this became a strategic focus and the urgency to find a cost-effective and environmentally responsible solution grew.
The business needed a funding partner who could offer flexibility, speed, and sector expertise to support the purchase of solar panels and battery storage without disrupting operations or cash flow.
Sandra said;
“We’ve always been passionate about sustainability, but the timing and cost had to be right. This investment is a major milestone for us, not just in reducing our energy bills, but in showing our commitment to doing things the right way for the environment and our future.”
The solution
Through its involvement in the Irish Steel Association, EliteForm Manufacturing was introduced to both Close Brothers Commercial Finance and Elite Energies, the renewable energy supplier. Close Brothers provided a GSLS Green Loan to fund the solar panel and battery storage installation.
The Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme (GSLS) is established and offered by the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) and benefits from a guarantee that has been provided by the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group, with support from the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE) and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).
The scheme provides SMEs with long-term financing to either encourage the growth and resilience of their enterprise or invest in climate action and environmental sustainability measures designed to improve their performance.
It was EliteForm Manufacturing's first time working with Close Brothers, and the process was seamless. Funding was fast, paperwork was minimal, and on-site assistance helped ensure a smooth implementation.
Gavin Smith, Regional Sales Director, Close Brothers Commercial Finance, said,
“We’re proud to support EliteForm Manufacturing with a GSLS Green Loan that enables them to invest in renewable energy and drive long-term growth. It’s a great example of how tailored finance can empower businesses to make impactful changes while preserving cash flow.”
James Gorham, Managing Director at Elite Energies, said:
“We’ve worked alongside Close Brothers on several commercial projects, including this latest collaboration with EliteForm Manufacturing. For this first phase, we’ve delivered a 150kW Solar PV system alongside 300kW of Sigenergy battery storage.
This means the business now hosts the largest Sigenergy battery storage system in Ireland, something we’re pleased to have supported. Our focus throughout has been on helping clients achieve meaningful energy savings and a strong return on investment.
Working with companies such as Close Brothers, we aim to make the transition to more sustainable energy solutions as straightforward as possible by supporting businesses every step of the way.”
The result
While the installation is still underway, the firm expects to save approximately €45,000 annually on energy costs. The investment aligns with the company’s broader environmental goals, which include rainwater harvesting, EV charging infrastructure, and eco-conscious landscaping.
This initiative is part of a larger site expansion, and the success of the funding experience has paved the way for further investment opportunities.
Sandra’s advice to other businesses is simple:
“100% go for sustainable electricity. It’s the future.”
Interested in sustainable investment for your business?
Close Brothers Commercial Finance offers flexible, fast, and tailored funding solutions like the GSLS Green Loan, designed to help businesses invest in renewable energy without disrupting cash flow.
Find out how Close Brothers can support your sustainability goals >
