Introduction
Wentworth Lodge, part of the B&M Investments group, has taken a meaningful step towards sustainability by installing solar panels across its site. The project is designed to reduce energy costs while cutting the building’s carbon footprint, ensuring long-term benefits for both residents and the wider community.
Why Wentworth Lodge Chose Solar
Even though it is not a care home, the energy demand at Wentworth Lodge is consistently high. Heating, lighting, catering and essential equipment all contribute to round-the-clock usage. Rising electricity costs presented both a challenge and an opportunity: by generating their own clean power on-site, the residential home could shield itself from volatile energy prices while contributing to environmental goals.
For B&M Investments, the decision aligned with their wider commitment to sustainability and providing high-quality, responsible care. Solar energy offered the dual advantage of cutting bills and supporting the organisation’s net-zero ambitions.
The Solar System Design
Spirit Energy proposed two solar PV systems for Wentworth Lodge, allowing for tailored solutions across different buildings within the site:
Main Lodge (18.9 kWp system):
- 42 Trina 450W solar panels
- Approx. 18,409 kWh of clean electricity generated annually
- Two Solis 8kW inverters installed in the top floor riser cupboard
- Panels mounted on pitched roofs with K2 mounting frames
Unit 6 (9.45 kWp system):
- 21 Trina 450W solar panels
- Approx. 9,204 kWh of clean electricity generated annually
- One Solis 8kW inverter
- Installed on pitched roofs with the same secure mounting system
Both systems were carefully modelled to account for orientation and shading, ensuring optimal performance. Together, the two arrays are expected to produce around 27,600 kWh per year, significantly reducing grid reliance.
Installation Highlights
The project included a full feasibility study covering technical surveys, structural reports and a DNO (Distribution Network Operator) application to approve grid connection. Both systems qualified as permitted development, so no planning permission was required.
Installation was designed to minimise disruption to residents and staff. Cable runs were neatly routed to existing riser cupboards, and the pitched roofs provided secure and efficient mounting conditions. Spirit Energy’s in-house team handled the process from design to commissioning, backed by full MCS accreditation.
Financial and Environmental Benefits
The combined solar systems at Wentworth Lodge deliver:
- Annual electricity bill savings of over £4,500 (based on current prices).
- A combined payback period of 6–7 years, offering long-term financial security.
- A total net present value (NPV) of more than £79,800 over the system’s lifetime.
- Reduction of over 6 tonnes of CO₂ emissions every year, equivalent to planting hundreds of trees.
By generating clean energy on-site, B&M Care Homes not only lowers their operational costs but also enhances its sustainability credentials in line with the UK’s net-zero targets.
Conclusion
Wentworth Lodge’s investment in solar PV highlights how care providers can balance financial prudence with environmental responsibility. By adopting solar power, the home is reducing its reliance on the grid, shielding itself from future energy price rises, and making a positive environmental impact.
This project demonstrates that renewable energy is not only a sound business decision but also a meaningful way to support residents, staff and the wider community.
If you are interested in exploring how solar PV and battery storage can benefit your commercial property, contact commercial@spiritenergy.co.uk, or our Head of Commercial, Aidan Murphy - aidanm@spiritenergy.co.uk.
Aidan Murphy,
Head of Commercial
