A Northumberland company is targeting growth in the renewable energy sector after being snapped up by a global sustainable solutions consultancy.

Bamburgh-based Calibrate Group Limited, which provides commercial heating and chilling systems, is set to grow following its acquisition by RSK Environment Limited. Founded more than a decade ago by Susie and Shane McDonald, Calibrate is active in a range of high-energy use sectors including agriculture, chemical processing, food and drink, tourism, manufacturing and education.

The company, which has 20 employees, is focused on helping its customers reduce their energy usage, control costs and contribute to a low-carbon economy – offering solutions including combined heat and power technologies and solar PVs and ground and air-sourced heat pumps.

Over the years Calibrate has carved out a strong position in the agricultural industry, with notable projects including West Ancroft Farm in the Scottish Borders where a 6MW heat pump dries one of the largest tonnages of grain in the country. The company has also installed technology at Duncotes Farm in Shropshire, which chills the largest tonnages of potatoes in the UK.

As part of RSK, Calibrate will aim to boost its position in other markets, benefiting from being part of the global group’s network of businesses. RSK, which has its head office in Cheshire, is made up of more than 175 environmental, engineering and technical services businesses across Europe, Africa, Asia, the United States, South America and the Middle East.

It operates in most sectors of the economy, including water, energy, food and drink, infrastructure, urban development, mining and waste. Co-founder Susie McDonald (pictured above) said: “We are thrilled to become part of RSK to realise our vision to grow and make a greater impact.

Although we are a progressive business, we have always been a small business with big ideas to expand into new industries. This acquisition by RSK allows us to take those ideas and accomplish our strategy quicker and with greater effect and we welcome the support and impressive credentials of RSK to enable us to accomplish that. In return, we are able to offer RSK a unique set of knowledge and skills to their wide-reaching credentials.”

Newcastle-based RG Corporate Finance, led by partner Nick Johnson, advised shareholders of Calibrate in the deal. 

Mr Johnson said: “Calibrate is a real success story in the North East’s contribution to tackling climate change through the application of innovative technologies. Integrating its expertise into the RSK Group will offer positive growth opportunities for the business, enabling the Calibrate team to access the dynamic global RSK network for synergies and market reach.”

Tax advice to the shareholders was provided RG’s corporate tax partner Simon Whiteside and tax director, Simon Hopwood. Legal advice to the shareholders was provided by Sintons, led by corporate partner Matt Collen who added: “We were delighted to assist the shareholders and successfully complete the sale. It has been a pleasure working with Calibrate and RGCF and I am sure the business will reach its full growth potential in partnership with RSK.”