Overview
The project - conducted by Amey in partnership with the Low Carbon Alliance - involved the installation of 198,450Wp of solar power, using innovative technologies and design to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions while enhancing the college's reputation and resilience.
Challenges
- Meeting the tight deadline of 12 weeks from contract award to commissioning
- Ensuring compliance with the Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) regulations and the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) standards
- Minimising disruption to the college's operations and ensuring safety of staff and students
- Optimising the energy generation potential and aesthetic appeal of the solar photovoltaic (PV) system
Solution
To overcome these challenges, Amey and the Low Carbon Alliance adopted a collaborative and innovative approach:
- Utilising 120 cell 405Wp PV modules, advanced PV inverters, and GNI99 relays, which increased the efficiency and reliability of the solar PV system
- Performing detailed structural calculations and design layout, which ensured the integrity and durability of the installation, as well as its alignment with the college's architectural style
- Implementing robust management processes, which ensured compliance with all regulatory and quality requirements, as well as effective communication and coordination with the college and NIE
- Executing the installation in a timely and professional manner, which minimised the impact on the college's activities and ensured safety and satisfaction of all stakeholders
Impact
The project delivered significant benefits for the college:
- Reducing energy consumption by 20%, saving £30,000 per year on electricity bills
- Reducing carbon emissions by 75 tonnes per year, contributing to the college's environmental sustainability goals
- Enhancing the college's reputation and resilience, attracting more students and funding opportunities
- Generating income from the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) scheme, which pays the college for the excess electricity exported to the grid
The project also demonstrated Amey and the Low Carbon Alliance's ability to deliver high-impact sustainable energy solutions, as well as their expertise in managing complex regulatory, safety, and design challenges, reinforcing their leadership position for future tenders.