Garden Centre Chain

Garden Centre Chain case study

Case Study: Transforming Garden Centres with Solar PV Solutions.

Project Overview:

We partnered with ION Consulting Limited to deliver a solar PV project for a local chain of garden centres aiming to reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. ION’s client expressed interest in rooftop solar installations across multiple sites, and we collaborated to produce desktop designs and quotations tailored to each location. These designs provided insights into the feasible solar PV capacity for each site, laying the groundwork for subsequent stages in the project.

Design Process

Our initial designs utilized advanced 3D modelling and simulated irradiance mapping to identify optimal array locations and module count. Each desktop survey formed the basis for more detailed feasibility studies, paving the way for customised, efficient installations across multiple sites.

Site One: Roundstone, West Sussex – 268kWp

Our first site, located in Rustington, West Sussex, featured a 268kWp installation using 536 modules. The building layout required dual plant areas – one in each plant room at opposite ends of the building. We constructed two mounting walls for the inverters and equipment, deploying two 66kW SolarEdge inverters and one 50kW inverter. A specialist communications cable was installed between the plant rooms to ensure system integration. To maintain safety, the solar PV system was also connected to the automatic fire alarm system. This system is provided by SolarEdge’s own Firefighter Gateway ensuring compatibility between the products.

Site Two: Snowhill, Copthorne – 308.5kWp

Building on the success at Roundstone, the project proceeded with the Snowhill site in Copthorne. This location presented unique challenges due to an existing 150kW solar installation. Maximizing remaining roof space, we added 617 solar panels, yielding a 308.5kWp system. This installation involved three 66kW inverters and one 50kW inverter, distributed across two purpose built plant areas, one outdoors. The visual aesthetic was preserved with colour-matched cable containment to align with the client’s brand.

Site Three: West End, Southampton – 329kWp

In October 2023, we completed the third site, a larger 329kWp system comprising 658 panels. SolarEdge technology provided module-level optimization, enhancing both output and safety. Pest protection measures were added to prevent nesting birds, maintaining system efficiency. Dual plant rooms required specialised solutions to sync inverters and integrate with fire safety systems.

Throughout the project, we collaborated closely with ION Consulting, store managers, and facility teams to ensure minimal disruption to operations.

Site Four: Ferndown, Dorset – 395kWp

The final site in Ferndown was the largest, with 782 modules producing a total of 395kWp. This installation required all DC cables to converge at a single plant room, demanding meticulous planning for both layout and fireproofing. JA Solar modules, known for their reliability and warranties, were chosen for all four sites. Due to the plant room’s size, we designed protective barriers to prevent equipment damage from store traffic.

Impact of Solar PV on Garden Centres

The solar PV installations across these garden centres mark a significant step toward energy independence, reduced costs, and a sustainable footprint. With a combined output capacity of 1,296,500 watts across all sites, the solar PV systems are set to offset substantial energy use, providing an eco-friendly alternative to grid electricity. These installations will contribute to the garden centres’ long-term financial sustainability, with each system projected to pay for itself in around four years.

From a customer perspective, the adoption of solar PV highlights the garden centres’ commitment to sustainability, aligning with the eco-conscious values of many visitors. These rooftop installations enhance the centres’ brand image, positioning them as leaders in environmental responsibility within the retail landscape.

Maintenance and Future-Proofing

In addition to installation, we are contracted to service and maintain each site, ensuring the systems operate at peak performance. With growing interest from insurers in solar PV safety and maintenance, regular cleaning and servicing are essential. Our pure water cleaning system keeps panels efficient and free of debris, maximizing the environmental and economic benefits of solar energy.

Project Summary

• Total Solar Panels Installed: 2,593
• Number of SolarEdge optimisers installed: 1298
• Total Rails and Module Clamps Used: 6,290 rails and 6,250 clamps
• DC Cable Length: Approximately 13 km
• Payback Period: Estimated at 4 years

This case study demonstrates how solar PV installations can transform commercial sites, providing financial benefits while supporting sustainability goals. The success of this project underscores the value of renewable energy solutions for businesses committed to reducing their environmental impact.