Location
Scottish Maritime Museum, Irvine, Scotland
The Brief
The Scottish Maritime Museum contacted Ceiba Renewables to explore how solar PV could help reduce their operational energy usage. The objective was to find a cost-effective solution that would lower expenses without impacting the visitor experience. A key consideration was selecting a suitable location on the museum’s premises that would deliver the best performance and return on investment.
Your Approach
Following a detailed consultation and assessment of various roof options, the main office roof was identified as the most favourable location for the installation. We specified SunPower X21 335Wp all-black panels, chosen for their superior warranties, high energy output per square metre, and excellent durability in the local salt-mist environment. The aesthetic appeal of the panels was also a deciding factor.
The system was designed as an 8.04kWp array paired with a SolarEdge three-phase inverter to manage the building’s energy demands efficiently. The entire process was carefully planned to ensure a seamless installation with minimal disruption to the museum’s daily operations.
The Result
The solar PV system has proven to be a highly successful investment for the Scottish Maritime Museum, delivering both aesthetic and performance benefits that have exceeded initial projections. Key outcomes include:
- Superior Performance: The system’s actual annual production of 7,280 kWh surpassed the estimated 6,319 kWh, generating over 15% more energy than expected.
- Significant Carbon Reduction: The installation reduces the museum’s carbon footprint by 2,855 kg of CO₂ annually, supporting its commitment to energy efficiency.
- Industry Recognition: The high-quality installation and its positive impact were featured in NICEIC’s Connections Scotland magazine, highlighting it as an exemplary project.
This project successfully demonstrates how heritage and cultural institutions can leverage modern solar technology to achieve significant operational savings and advance their sustainability goals. The system provides a reliable source of clean energy, allowing the museum to allocate more resources to preserving Scotland’s maritime history.
We are always looking for ways to minimise our operational expenses without impacting on the visitor experience and this is an excellent example of the Scottish Maritime Museum’s dedication to improving its energy efficiency.