Green Energy Solutions for Sustainable Business
Background
Harbour Construction is a leading construction firm based in the Northwest with a portfolio of commercial and residential builds to its name. They were tasked to tender for a student block in Preston. The new build had to meet the stated BREAAM code of sustainability.
The Challenge
With students facing rising rising energy costs, the university wanted to transition towards a more sustainable energy source. They were looking for a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly solution.
The Solution
After a comprehensive assessment of the BREAAM survey and energy needs, our team recommended the installation of a state-of-the-art commercial solar PV system. The system was custom-designed to maximise energy production while minimising environmental impact.
Key Features of the Solar PV System
Capacity: 295kWp
Components: High-efficiency solar panels, advanced inverters, and robust racking system.
Location: Rooftop mounted installation were strategically chosen to optimise sun exposure.
Monitoring System: A sophisticated real-time monitoring system was implemented to track energy production and identify any performance issues promptly.
Benefits
Energy Independence: The solar PV system now covers 55% of the energy demand from all 3
blocks, significantly reducing their reliance on the grid and providing long-term energy cost
stability.
Environmental Impact: The system reduces CO2 emissions by 49.84 tons annually,
equivalent to planting over 2289 trees each year.
Financial Savings: The student accommodation is projected to save over £19,349.04 per year
in energy costs, with an estimated payback period of 4.4 years.
Positive Brand Image: The transition to renewable energy has garnered positive attention
from students, stakeholders, and the community, enhancing the university’s reputation as an
environmentally-conscious industry education leader.
Maintenance and Support: Our team provides regular maintenance and performance checks to ensure the system operates at peak efficiency. A 25-year warranty covers the PV modules and a 7 year warranty covers the inverters.
KAST offers 1 year workmanship warranty as standard that can be extended to 5 years along with a yearly servicing package for peace of mind.
Conclusion
The implementation of the this solar PV system has not only met but exceeded the client’s
expectations and now stands as a shining example of sustainable business practices, demonstrating
how student accommodation and solar energy can be harnessed for both economic and
environmental benefits.
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