Peacehaven Council Solar

Harnessing Solar Energy for Peacehaven Town Council

Peacehaven Town Council, located in East Sussex, approached us with a forward-thinking vision to maximize the potential of their council office building. Their flat roof presented a unique opportunity to achieve multiple objectives: reducing the impact of rising energy costs, generating additional income through the government’s Feed-in Tariff (FiT) program, and enhancing their commitment to environmental sustainability. This project aligned perfectly with our mission of delivering tailored renewable energy solutions for organizations looking to embrace a greener future.

From the outset, it was clear that Peacehaven Town Council was deeply invested in improving its green credentials and minimizing its carbon footprint. With energy prices increasing and climate change concerns growing, the council recognized the need for an effective, sustainable energy solution. We collaborated closely with their team to understand their specific requirements, ensuring that our proposed solution met both their energy goals and budgetary considerations.

Comprehensive Design and Planning

The first step in the project was a thorough feasibility assessment. This included a complete survey of the premises and a detailed structural analysis of the flat roof to determine its capacity to accommodate a solar energy system. The structural survey was vital to ensure the roof could bear the weight of the system safely while complying with all regulatory standards. Based on the findings, we designed a solution tailored to the unique characteristics of the building.

We proposed the **Solar World Aero flat roof system**, a lightweight and interlinked solution engineered to require minimal ballasting. This system’s design makes it particularly suitable for flat roofs, reducing stress on the building’s structure while maximizing energy production. The Aero system’s modular configuration also allowed us to optimize the available space for maximum efficiency. This 14.70 kWp system was equipped with **SolarWorld 250** panels and a **SolarWorld inverter**, ensuring top-tier performance and reliability.

In addition to the technical aspects, we wanted to make the environmental benefits of this system visible and engaging. To achieve this, we installed a large energy display in the council office's reception area. This display provides real-time information about the system's energy generation, enabling staff and visitors to see the direct impact of the council’s commitment to renewable energy.

Delivering Results: Performance and Sustainability

The installed system delivers an impressive annual output of **12,618 kWh**, providing significant energy savings for the council. In addition to reducing energy costs, the system generates income through the Feed-in Tariff program, contributing to the council's financial sustainability. Furthermore, the installation achieves an annual carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction of **30 tonnes**, highlighting its substantial environmental benefits.

This project underscores the effectiveness of solar energy solutions in addressing financial and environmental challenges. By generating clean energy on-site, Peacehaven Town Council has not only reduced its reliance on traditional energy sources but also demonstrated leadership in adopting sustainable practices. The visibility of the energy display in the reception area reinforces this leadership, inspiring others in the community to explore renewable energy options.

A Model for Local Authorities

Peacehaven Town Council’s solar installation sets an example for other local authorities looking to transition to renewable energy. The project showcases how proactive planning, innovative technology, and a commitment to sustainability can result in long-term financial and environmental benefits. By harnessing the potential of an underutilized asset—their flat roof—the council has created a renewable energy system that delivers value on multiple levels.

This case study illustrates the importance of customized solutions tailored to each client’s needs. From the initial feasibility studies to the final installation and energy monitoring system, every step was designed to ensure that the council achieved its goals. As energy prices continue to rise and the need for climate action becomes increasingly urgent, projects like this provide a roadmap for how organizations can reduce costs and emissions while demonstrating environmental leadership