Location
Dalwhinnie House, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
The Brief
The homeowners wanted a solar PV system to protect them from rising energy bills. A key requirement was sourcing a system with minimal long-term performance degradation. The project’s main challenges were to maximise energy yields from the available roof space and mitigate the impact of shade from neighbouring buildings, particularly during winter.
Your Approach
Ceiba Renewables conducted a thorough assessment of the property and evaluated several options. The final design maximised the available roof space with a powerful 9.16kWp system. To achieve this, we managed the grid connection application to SSE on behalf of the client to ensure their single-phase supply could support the larger system.
We specified 28 high-performance SunPower 327W solar panels, known for their durability and low degradation rate. To counteract the effects of shading, we integrated a SolarEdge power optimiser system. This technology allows each panel to operate independently, ensuring that shade on one panel does not compromise the output of the entire array.
The Result
The custom-designed solar PV system has surpassed all initial performance estimates, delivering exceptional value and long-term energy security for the homeowners. Key outcomes include:
- Outstanding Energy Production: In its first two years of operation, the system generated 17,249 kWh—significantly exceeding the estimated annual production of 7,481 kWh.
- Significant Environmental Impact: The installation reduces the home’s carbon footprint by an estimated 3,868 kg of CO₂ annually.
- Long-Term Reliability: The system is protected by extensive warranties, including a 25-year power and product warranty on the panels and a 12-year inverter warranty, ensuring continued high performance for years to come.
The project demonstrates how a well-designed solar installation with advanced technology can overcome site-specific challenges like shading to deliver superior energy generation and financial returns. The use of a free monitoring system also allows for transparent tracking of year-on-year performance and individual panel efficiency.