Overview
Overview
Scope
Feedback
Challenges
Solution
Results
Project Overview
This period property incorporates a detached garage within the forecourt, which has been utilised as the location for a solar photovoltaic (PV) installation. Rather than installing panels on the main house and affecting its historic character, the garage roof provides a practical and visually sensitive solution for renewable energy generation.
Scope of Works
Solar PV Installation
Installation of a low-profile solar photovoltaic (PV) array on the detached garage roof, positioned to maximise solar gain while maintaining a discreet appearance.
Battery Storage Integration
Incorporation of a battery storage system to capture excess energy generated during the day, enabling usage during evening peak demand periods.
Heat Pump Support System
Design and implementation of the solar system to directly support the electrical demand of the air source heat pump, improving efficiency and reducing reliance on grid electricity.
Sensitive Property Integration
Careful system placement and design to ensure no impact on the main property’s architectural character, preserving the traditional appearance while introducing modern energy solutions.
Seamless Solar Installation with Outstanding Service
We recently had the pleasure of working with Martin and the team at Ace Solar Energy, and we couldn’t be happier with the whole experience.
From the outset, Martin took the time to talk us through a few different options for where the system could be installed, explaining the pros and cons of each. We eventually opted for the garage, as it offered great coverage and strong energy performance, while also keeping everything in keeping with the look of our old farmhouse—which was really important to us.
The installation team, Will and Matt, were absolutely fantastic. They went above and beyond throughout the whole process—extremely courteous, tidy, and clearly very skilled at what they do. They made sure everything was completed to a high standard and took the time to explain how the system works in a way that was easy to understand.
A special mention as well to Tracey, who was incredibly helpful in getting us set up with our Octopus account for overnight charging and storage. That extra level of support made a real difference and showed how much the team care about the full customer experience, not just the installation itself.
Overall, it’s been a smooth, professional and genuinely enjoyable process from start to finish. We’re already seeing the benefits and would highly recommend Martin and the team at Ace Solar Energy to anyone considering going solar.
Challenges Presented
Historic Building Constraints
The period property required a sensitive approach to preserve its traditional character, limiting the ability to install solar panels directly on the main dwelling.
Visual Impact Considerations
Any renewable energy solution needed to be discreet and sympathetic to the property’s appearance, avoiding disruption to its architectural integrity.
Increased Energy Demand
The introduction of an air source heat pump created a higher reliance on electricity, requiring an efficient solution to offset ongoing energy consumption and running costs.
Optimising Energy Usage
Ensuring that as much generated solar energy as possible could be utilised on-site, particularly during peak demand periods, required careful system planning and the integration of battery storage.
Solutions Implemented
Discreet System Placement
The solar PV system was installed on the detached garage rather than the main property, providing an effective renewable energy solution without impacting the building’s historic character.
Low-Profile Solar Design
A carefully selected low-profile panel array was used to minimise visual impact while taking full advantage of the garage roof’s unobstructed aspect and simple pitched form.
Integration with Heat Pump System
The solar installation was designed to directly support the air source heat pump, generating clean electricity to offset its increased energy demand and improve overall system efficiency.
Battery Storage Implementation
Battery storage was incorporated to capture surplus energy generated during the day, allowing it to be used during the evening when demand is higher and reducing reliance on grid electricity during peak periods.
Challenges Presented
Historic Building Constraints
The period property required a sensitive approach to preserve its traditional character, limiting the ability to install solar panels directly on the main dwelling.
Visual Impact Considerations
Any renewable energy solution needed to be discreet and sympathetic to the property’s appearance, avoiding disruption to its architectural integrity.
Increased Energy Demand
The introduction of an air source heat pump created a higher reliance on electricity, requiring an efficient solution to offset ongoing energy consumption and running costs.
Optimising Energy Usage
Ensuring that as much generated solar energy as possible could be utilised on-site, particularly during peak demand periods, required careful system planning and the integration of battery storage.
Solutions Implemented
Discreet System Placement
The solar PV system was installed on the detached garage rather than the main property, providing an effective renewable energy solution without impacting the building’s historic character.
Low-Profile Solar Design
A carefully selected low-profile panel array was used to minimise visual impact while taking full advantage of the garage roof’s unobstructed aspect and simple pitched form.
Integration with Heat Pump System
The solar installation was designed to directly support the air source heat pump, generating clean electricity to offset its increased energy demand and improve overall system efficiency.
Battery Storage Implementation
Battery storage was incorporated to capture surplus energy generated during the day, allowing it to be used during the evening when demand is higher and reducing reliance on grid electricity during peak periods.
