HBS New Energies installed solar panels to 286 social housing properties in Cornwall and Devon as part of a large solar PV scheme for Westward Housing. We helped the housing association reduce their CO2 footprint and deliver energy savings for their social tenants.
Following a tender process Westward Housing appointed HBS to install solar PV to their social housing portfolio. The aim was to improve the EPC rating, energy efficiency and reduce the running costs of their social properties. The 863 kWp solar PV scheme has helped Westward drive renewable energy generation in social housing in the South West, as well as provide a low cost source of energy to their social tenants.
Project delivery
- The new energies division delivered a full service solar PV solution, managing the design, supply, installation, tenant liaison, commissioning, handover, DNO engagement and O&M.
- We first completed a feasibility study for 1458 properties and identified those that were viable for a solar PV. We considered factors including sun path, shading, kWp and financial viability.
- Our tenant liaison team managed the programme communication and mailed all viable properties. We gave Westward’s tenants the opportunity to sign up for free solar and informed them of the benefits.
- The design and technical team specified and designed bespoke solar PV systems for each of the viable social housing properties.
- We managed all installations from start to finish including, roofing, installation, electrical connection and system commissioning, in accordance with the strict health & safety standards set.
- During the first phase of solar panel installations, the FiT rates changed. As a result, HBS adjusted delivery, workforce and other aspects to meet the tight schedules imposed by these changes. Throughout the project, the tenant liaison team updated tenants on the progress of their solar panel installation.
- At handover we briefed Westward on the solar PV installations as well as providing a bespoke O&M pack for each house type.
- The PV scheme will generate an estimated annual output of 776,700 kWh with annual CO2 savings of 388,050 kg. Westward’s social tenants will enjoy energy bill savings as well as protect themselves against future energy price rises.
- The Macquarie Group, the scheme’s funder will receive income for twenty years from the Feed-in-Tariff.
Project summary
| Total scheme size | 863 kWp |
| Total system size | 2 – 4 kWp |
| Annual output | 776,700 kWh |
| Annual CO2 savings | 388,050 kg |
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