Barlows Park, Tadley - 24.64 kWp (Nov '24)

Annual savings on energy costs: £4,233
Payback period: 6 years
Projected 20-year savings: Over £88,000
Carbon reduction: 4,458 kg of CO2 annually

By installing a 24.64 kWp solar PV system, Barlows Park has significantly lowered its energy expenses while making a positive environmental impact. This initiative not only ensures long-term financial stability but also sets an example for other community-run organisations.

Introduction: Bringing Solar Power to Barlows Park

Barlows Park in Aldermaston, recently took a decisive step towards sustainability by partnering with Spirit Energy to install a 24.64 kWp solar PV system. The community facility, managed entirely by volunteers, faced rising energy costs that threatened its long-term viability. By adopting solar energy, Barlows Park aims to reduce its energy expenditure, support environmental goals, and foster a sustainable future for the local community.

Project Background: Addressing Rising Energy Costs

Barlows Park Management Association operates on a limited budget, primarily supported by grants and community contributions. With annual energy bills exceeding £12,000, including high standing charges, the need for a cost-effective solution became urgent. Joe Slimin, a representative of the association, explained, “We are a community facility run by volunteers, and our energy bills were skyrocketing. We had to find a way to reduce our costs and become more sustainable.”

To finance the project, the association secured a grant through the Community Infrastructure Fund provided by the borough council. This funding allowed them to install solar panels on the roof of their main building, with future plans to upgrade their gas boilers to more efficient, renewable-powered systems.

The Solar System Design and Specifications

The solar PV system installed by Spirit Energy comprises:

System size: 24.64 kWp
Number of panels: 56 x 440W monocrystalline solar panels
Inverter: 1 x Solis-3P20K-S5
Mounting system: A-frame fixed mounting, inclined at 10 degrees on a flat roof
Estimated annual output: 21,030 kWh
On-site usage: 56% of the power generated
Export rate: 10p/kWh for the 44% of electricity exported to the grid

With no battery storage included, the system relies on direct consumption and grid export for energy management. The total project cost, including feasibility studies and structural surveys, amounted to £22,431 (excluding VAT).

Installation Process

Spirit Energy’s team delivered a smooth and efficient installation, which included scaffolding, structural assessments, and commissioning of the system. Ms. Slimin praised the professionalism of the installers, stating:

“Everything we asked of them was done perfectly. The team was punctual, respectful, and responsive throughout the process.”

Despite the challenges of coordinating daily site access, the installation was completed without any major issues.

Financial and Environmental Benefits

Financial Savings:

First-year savings: £4,233
Payback period: 6 years
Return on investment (ROI): 22% in the first year

Over 20 years, the cumulative savings are projected to exceed £88,000, providing long-term financial relief for the community facility. The system’s net present value (NPV) stands at an impressive £117,994, underscoring its economic viability.

Environmental Impact:

The solar installation is expected to offset 4,458 kg of CO2 annually, contributing significantly to the club’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint. Ms. Slimin highlighted the importance of sustainability in their decision-making, saying:

“We want to help the environment as much as possible. Renewable energy was the right choice for us.”

Community Engagement and Future Plans

Beyond the immediate financial and environmental benefits, the solar project has bolstered community spirit and engagement. Barlows Park has become a local example of how grassroots organisations can adopt renewable energy to enhance their sustainability. Encouraged by the success of the solar installation, the management association is now seeking additional grants to further improve the facility’s energy efficiency by replacing old gas boilers with renewable-powered alternatives.

Conclusion

The partnership between Barlow's Park and Spirit Energy exemplifies how community-driven initiatives can harness solar power for both financial sustainability and environmental stewardship. By investing in renewable energy, Barlows Park is not only reducing its operational costs but also inspiring other community organisations to explore similar projects.

Ms. Slimin concluded, “We’re delighted with the outcome and would happily recommend Spirit Energy to others. This project has made a real difference for us, and we look forward to seeing its long-term benefits.”