The client required a comprehensive energy solution for their new garden centre, including a large-scale solar PV installation and a robust EV charging network. The project also involved significant grid infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the new energy demands. Westwood Energy was tasked with designing and implementing a system that would maximise energy efficiency, support extensive EV charging, and ensure seamless integration with new electrical infrastructure.
480kW | Leeds
Westwood Energy executed a multifaceted project at a new build garden centre in Leeds, featuring a 480kW solar PV system, extensive EV charging infrastructure, and significant grid upgrades. The project integrated advanced SolarEdge technology with Trina modules and Sunfixings mounting systems to deliver a high-performance solution. The installation also included new high-voltage connections and transformers to support the facility’s energy needs and EV charging network.
KEY FACTS
480kW Solar PV Roof Mount Installation
Location: Leeds, England
Sector: Garden Centre and Retail
Additional Features: 52x EV Charging Points, 2MVA New Connection, Private 11kV Circuit
How much could solar PV save you?
1,200 Modules: Trina Vertex 400W
Inverters: 2 x 100K SolarEdge, 2 x 90K SolarEdge
Optimizers: 600 x P850 SolarEdge
Mounting System: Sunfixings MRD S Steel Sheet
Metering Solution: SolarEdge G100
Additional Equipment:
- 1 x Reverse Power Relay (LV)
- 1 x 2MVA Incoming HV Connection
- 1 x 1250kVA Transformer
- 1 x 800kVA Transformer
- 1 x 11kV Private Ring Main
- 52 x 22kW EV Charging Points
- 2 x 50kW EV Charging Points
The installation was meticulously planned to meet the client’s exacting standards. We deployed SolarEdge’s cutting-edge inverters and optimizers to optimise the solar PV system’s performance, significantly reducing the garden centre’s mains electricity demand by 37%. The project also included the delivery of a new 2MVA grid connection with a private 11kV network, two transformers, and export limiting devices to adhere to Distribution Network Operator limitations.
The EV charging network featured 52 app-enabled 22kW chargers and 2 custom-wrapped 50kW chargers, providing a comprehensive solution for the garden centre’s electric vehicle needs.
The solar PV system generates 378MWh annually, with 78% of the energy consumed on-site and 34% of import demand offset. This translates to significant annual savings of approximately £97,200, showcasing a strong return on investment and demonstrating the effectiveness of integrating solar energy with EV charging infrastructure and advanced grid solutions.
”“Westwood have helped us with several Solar and EV charging projects, bringing clear and well thought through options and solutions to the table. Their project delivery has been excellent, with a can-do attitude, delivering on time with the minimum of fuss. They have consistently gone above and beyond to deal with time consuming bureaucracy on our behalf and I have no hesitation in recommending their services to anyone looking at solar and EV projects.”
Tom Megginson, DirectorTingley Garden Centre