Solar and wind are projected to source 50% of the UK’s power by 2050 (The Eco Experts)

What are solar panels, and how does solar energy work?

Solar PV (photovoltaic) systems work by capturing the sun’s energy and converting it into clean, free electricity that can be used to power buildings.

They can be mounted to the ground or roofing via tiles or panels, and – once installed – require very little maintenance. Sunlight is a completely free, safe and clean source of energy, meaning you’ll only pay for installation of the system (which can be paid upfront or via a funding agreement such as a PPA), which has an average lifespan of 25-30 years.

Furthermore, as a green renewable energy, solar electricity does not release any harmful pollutants to the environment, helping you to significantly reduce both your carbon emissions and your electricity costs, whilst providing access to a reliable, clean source of energy.

Solar PV - The benefits to your organisation:

• Most direct way to reduce carbon emissions
• Fixed low cost energy – protect your organisation from fluctuating energy costs
• Land can have dual usage e.g. agriculture
• Upfront funding
• Minimal maintenance and zero noise
• Established technology (over 40 years)

Commercial Solar battery storage solutions

Solar battery storage solutions are battery units that are installed on-site to help maximise the amount of the solar energy you generate. Battery units offer organisations a means to store and discharge solar electricity at specific times (e.g. during the night), assist with balancing demand on the national grid, and offer backup power if needed.

Does my business need battery storage?

Understanding whether not your business could benefit from solar battery storage is dependent on a number of factors, including your energy consumption patterns and available space for installation of panels. From initial consultations and assessments to installation and maintenance, J Tomlinson’s in-house green energy experts will work closely with you to create a low-carbon strategy that meets your specific needs. For more information on J Tomlinson’s solar energy services, click here to get in touch with our team.

Utility-scale solar farms and PV power stations

A significant reduction in the annual capital and operational costs of solar farms (also known as photovoltaic power stations) means that subsidy free, utility-scale, solar farms are now much more cost-effective to set up, maintain and operate.

Developers will access to land and/or high volumes of roof space recognise the many positive prospects for utility-scale solar farms, which includes high revenue generation through the provision of a predictable long-term revenue stream, on-site energy storage, and the creation of local jobs.

Furthermore, following the recent announcement from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) that solar projects will be able to take part in the next round of the 2021 Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, now is the ideal time to look into the benefits of introducing solar energy to your organisation.

J Tomlinson’s low carbon team can work with you to develop solar farm options to enable you to generate power for sale, creating a long-term revenue stream.

If you have identified a potential site or space for a solar farm and would like advice on the next steps, get in touch with us here.

How can I harness the power of solar energy in my organisation?

J Tomlinson has extensive experience in the development, construction and operation of solar PV projects throughout the UK. Our solar PV services include: Site identification, energy use/yield analysis, financial projections, design and engineering, installation, commission and maintenance.

To find out more about how solar energy can help your organisation save money, meet its sustainability targets and boost the local economy, please get in touch.