Simpsons Malt
Transforming the Scotch Whisky Sector with Sustainable Energy Solutions
Key Facts
25,000
tonnes of CO₂ saved annually
Over 140 GWh
of fossil fuel displaced each year
80%
reduction in scope 1 emissions
Redefines
local biomass as an energy store
- Industrial Decarbonisation
Advancing Industrial Decarbonisation in the Scotch Whisky Sector
Simpsons Malt is at the forefront of decarbonisation in the Scotch Whisky industry. Partnering with AMP, they’ve successfully reduced CO₂ emissions by 25,000 tonnes annually. This project addresses grid constraints, optimises renewable energy use, and sets new sustainability standards for malt production in the Scotch Whisky sector.
The Vision
Simpsons Malt, a certified B Corporation, has a long-standing commitment to sustainability and has set the ambitious goal of achieving Net Zero by 2030. To decarbonise their energy-intensive malting process and cut reliance on fossil fuels, they partnered with AMP to deliver an innovative industrial heat decarbonisation project. The solution was designed to transition the site to sustainable energy sources, tackle local grid constraints by making use of otherwise-curtailed renewable electricity, and maintain the high product quality and operational efficiency that Simpsons Malt is known for. Key challenges included meeting the significant heat demand of the malting process – traditionally powered by fossil fuels – overcoming transmission limitations that can waste surplus wind power, and aligning ambitious sustainability targets with the operational requirements of large-scale, continuous production.
The Solution
AMP designed, funded, and built a state-of-the-art energy centre at Tweed Valley Maltings, combining low-carbon heat with innovative electrification technology. The facility features locally sourced biomass boilers, providing consistent, sustainable heat as a baseload energy source, alongside the UK’s first electric boiler for malting, which uses otherwise-curtailed wind power to replace fossil fuels. When wind generation exceeds grid capacity, the electric boiler captures this surplus renewable energy – heat that would otherwise be lost – and feeds it directly into the malting process. This approach ensures that the malt produced at Tweed Valley Maltings, 90% of which supplies the distilling industry, carries a substantially reduced carbon footprint. AMP also delivers long-term operations and maintenance, ensuring the system runs efficiently and reliably for years to come.
Our approach to sustainable biomass
The biomass boilers at Simpsons Malt are powered by AMP’s sustainable industrial fuel blend, sourced on average from within 50 miles of the site to cut transport emissions and support the local rural economy. This bespoke blend is made from low-grade biomass materials with no alternative use – such as twigs, bark, brash, and residues from urban tree works, forestry, and sawmills. By diverting this material from decay, which would otherwise release CO₂, and using it to displace fossil fuels, the fuel blend delivers a genuine and substantial carbon reduction.
“This project is groundbreaking in its approach to industrial decarbonisation. By combining curtailed wind energy and locally sourced biomass, we are setting a new standard for low-carbon energy solutions, not only for malt production but for the entire Scotch Whisky sector.”
Mark Tarry, CEO, AMP
Awards
Winner
Demand Award
Winner
Low-Carbon Initiative – Business Leadership
Winner
Best in Class
Winner
Best I&C Initiative