ENATS approval boosts Scott Bros operation
Scott Bros gain major certification for recycled sand used in solar farm construction
TEESIDE-based Scott Bros have opened a new market for their recycled sand as it becomes approved for use in solar farm projects. Following ENATS certification, demand has surged, with thousands of tonnes already supplied from the company’s £6 million wash plant in South Bank, Middlesbrough.
The company is now ramping up production to supply more of its recycled sand to solar farms and high-voltage cable projects, where the material is used for backfilling and bedding underground electrical cables.
ENATS (Energy Networks Association Technical Specification) certification confirms that Scott Bros’ recycled sand meets the strict performance, cohesion, and safety standards required for use in solar farm construction and grid connection projects.
Processed at the company’s state-of-the-art Middlesbrough washing facility – one of the UK’s largest ‘urban quarries’ – the material is produced by converting construction and excavation waste into high-quality British Standard sand and aggregate. In addition to its environmental benefits, the recycled sand offers a more cost-effective alternative to traditionally quarried materials.
Scott Bros director Peter Scott led the development process to achieve ENATS approval, refining the sand by increasing the proportion of extra-fine particles to enhance cohesion and meet specification requirements.
He commented: ‘We’re proud to be one of a few suppliers of recycled sand in the area to meet the ENATS standard. Solar farm developers need materials that protect high-voltage cables from damage and maintain stable heat transfer. The fact that they put a rather large dent in our stockpiles shows the scale of demand for reliable, sustainable alternatives to virgin sand.’
Scott Bros’ recycled building and sharp sand products are already widely used, from commercial construction projects to improving golf course drainage, turf health and surface firmness.
Fellow director Bob Borthwick added: ‘It’s especially rewarding when you consider that, not too many years ago, the construction and excavation waste now being processed into ENATS-approved sand would likely have ended up in landfill or as low-grade fill. It’s a great example of how recycled materials can replace virgin resources without compromising performance.
‘Every tonne we supply saves the equivalent volume of natural sand from being quarried. Renewable energy developments, particularly solar farms, are being built at pace across the UK, and we’re pleased to support the sector in reducing both its costs and carbon footprint.’
