Solar Case Study:
Student Accommodation Provider​

Background

Our client is a long-term client with multiple sides to the business and approached us to install solar PV at their site in Southampton. Part of their remit for their sites is offset a proportion of CO2 per year to meet their sustainability targets. This building was one of the better roofs for PV in their portfolio although it did present its challenges.

Challenge & Objectives:

  • Challenges: The install took place across 4 different flat roofs all at different heights which made the logistics of lifting and loading a challenge. Careful planning of the guardrail expansion and plant machinery made this go ahead without any problems.

  • Objectives: Reducing energy costs and CO2 emissions throughout the group.

Solutions:

  • System Design: A flat roof 157kW PV installation across 4x rooftops using Van Der Valk mounting system. 3x 50kW Solis Inverters were installed across 2 connection points.

  • Installation Process: Being a flat roof, we confirmed the structural suitability & condition of the roof. Once this was confirmed we had to extend the existing handrail system to ensure we complied with H&S requirements during the installation. In the background we applied to the DNO for grid approval and planning consent to then progress with the installation. The install was then 2 weeks on site and although the weather presented some challenges it was completed on time and in budget.

  • Technology Used: The site is installed with a specialist flat roof mounting system and Solis inverters which provide the client with monitoring of the system.

Results & Benefits

  • Reduction in CO2 emissions: 35.9 tonnes/year

  • 13% reduction on reliance from the grid.

  • Self-Consumption: 98%

  • Return on Investment (ROI): 4 years & 6 months.

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