Introduction

We recently completed a renewable energy upgrade for a property on the outskirts of Ruthin, Denbighshire. The client’s primary goal was to harness solar energy by installing solar panels on two outbuildings, with the generated power stored in a home energy storage system for maximum efficiency. This project aimed to reduce reliance on the National Grid, cut energy bills, and future-proof the property for electric vehicle charging.

Methodology

Following the customer’s request for a free quotation, our in-house design team conducted a comprehensive site survey and energy assessment. Using this data, we designed a bespoke renewable energy system tailored to the property’s needs and layout. Our design incorporated 21 high-performance 445W Trina solar panels, optimally positioned across the two outbuilding roofs to maximise solar capture throughout the day. For energy storage, we specified a 13.5kWh Tesla Powerwall 3 system to store surplus solar energy for use during periods of low solar generation or grid outages. The customer also requested a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) charging point, for which we selected a Zappi charger to complement their system.

Installation

Our installation team began by mounting the 21 solar panels in two arrays, securely fixing them onto the slate roofs using a rail system. We then routed the DC cabling underground to the inverter, ensuring a safe, discreet, and uncluttered installation.

We then installed the Tesla Powerwall 3 and Tesla Gateway on the exterior walls of the property. The Gateway serves as the hub, enabling automatic detection of National Grid outages and seamless switching to stored power. This setup ensures uninterrupted electricity supply during grid failures, which can be common in the area.

Finally, we installed the Zappi charge point on a pole adjacent to the garage, again with cables hidden underground for a tidy appearance. We configured the system’s software to enable all components to work harmoniously, optimising solar energy usage and prioritising renewable power for EV charging.

Outcome

The customer was delighted with the installation and the seamless integration of the system. They particularly appreciated how the Tesla Powerwall 3 and Gateway store excess solar energy efficiently, providing backup power during grid outages. The Tesla app has proven to be an invaluable tool, providing homeowners with real-time insights into their energy usage and generation. By maximising self-consumption of solar energy, the customer has taken significant steps towards energy independence and reducing their carbon footprint.