80 jobs to be created as energy solutions specialist opens distribution hub

Energy solutions businesses, SMS plc, has opened its main distribution hub in Barnsley following a move to a new 52,000 sq ft premises at Ashroyd Business Park, off Junction 36 of the M1.

SMS, which is headquartered in Glasgow, specialises in the installation, operation and management of carbon reduction technologies, including smart meters, electric vehicle (EV) charging points, and battery storage systems.

The company has signed a 10-year lease at the commercial premises, with around 80 jobs set to be created at the new site.

Skills and supply chain support has been provided by Enterprising Barnsley, the council’s business support service.

In addition to the distribution hub, SMS is also later this year due to complete the construction of a second Barnsley site.

The 40 megawatt (MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), built on land near Hopewell Street in Stairfoot, will support the UK’s power network with the flexibility services crucial for accommodating renewable energy generation and boosting the national grid’s resilience.

Councillor Robert Frost, cabinet support member – regeneration and culture, said: “SMS works closely with both private and public sectors to achieve the UK’s net-zero carbon target by 2050, which is very much something we as a council support.

“It is great news that they have chosen Barnsley for their main distribution hub, which will see more jobs created in the borough.

“We wish SMS continued success and have been pleased to support them in consolidating their growing operations under one roof in Barnsley.”

Geoff Schofield, finance director at SMS plc, added: “Our new logistics hub at Ashroyd Business Park provides a strategic location for our operations throughout the UK and will drive efficiencies into our storage and final mile supply chain activities.

“It also adds to our already significant presence in Yorkshire and the North of England, including our office in Doncaster and customer contact centre and national engineer training academy in Bolton.

“The facility is a fantastic addition to our business and will support the Group’s expansion as we continue to deliver smart energy infrastructure and carbon reduction assets across the UK.”