Sheffield couple embrace renewable energy
We met Mr & Mrs Scott at a local show and we were asked to survey their detached bungalow in Sheffield to discuss ways of reducing the annual running costs of the property. Following the survey, we installed solar panels, LED lighting, and a voltage optimisation unit.
Solar PV
12 x 250 watt solar panels were installed over three roof areas. The panels were installed on both south and west facing roofs. These solar panels will generate power at different rates as the sun moves around the property from east to west.
Philip Mosley, Managing Director at Norcroft Energy said, “The set up would cause a standard inverter problems as all the panels are usually connected together in a string so the weakest panel would set the standard for the rest. To get over this issue, we installed 12 micro inverters, one below each panel, to optimise the system and get the maximum energy harvest out of each panel.”
The new system will generate over 2200 kW per year and return a combined saving for Mr & Mrs Scott of over £500 per year.
LED lighting
Some hungry 50 watt halogen lamps in the kitchen were replaced with 5 watt LED units. This was a straight forward swap with no noticeable difference in light quality but a noticeable difference in running costs. By replacing 4 halogen lamps with the equivalent LED unit, Mr & Mrs Scott can reduce their lighting costs by 90%.
Voltage Optimisation
A Voltage Optimisation unit was installed to optimise the whole property. The unit was installed close to the mains unit and reduces the incoming voltage that powers appliances in the home.
Philip added, “Most domestic appliances will run with a voltage at 220 volts. The average voltage in Yorkshire is around 245 so appliances have to dissipate the extra volts, usually as heat. This voltage reduction will extend the life expectancy of individual appliances.”
A saving of at least 10% will be achieved from Mr & Mrs Scott’s electricity bill now this unit has been installed.
Mr & Mrs Scott said, “We are extremely pleased with the work Norcroft have undertaken for us. It was trouble-free and completed to a high standard and nothing has been too much trouble for them. It is lovely to have a look at the monitor and see how much energy we are producing and I notice no difference in the quality of light where the halogen bulbs have been replaced. I would have no hesitation in recommending Norcroft Energy to anyone considering this step.”
For a survey on your property to see how much you can save, call us on 01226 763 127.