Solar PV emerged as an attractive, growing, self-generation energy solution in TEC’s latest carbon reduction survey. Whilst some institutions have already installed rooftop solar, many reported barriers to either introducing or extending their solar energy deployment. In response, TEC’s electricity Framework partner EDF has relaunched its Solar Services, helping institutions unlock the benefits of cost-effective, clean renewable energy.
We sat down with Peter Darke, relationship manager at EDF, and Dr John Brenton, Head of Energy and Carbon Reduction Solutions at TEC, to discuss the benefits, challenges and opportunities that solar energy presents.
Why is solar PV a good on-site renewable energy choice for higher and further education settings?
Peter – There are many benefits to solar PV, not least that solar panels can be retrofitted to your existing buildings and infrastructure. Many universities have large estates which are well suited to rooftop, car port and even ground-mount solar projects. Solar can be an economical way of reducing your grid electricity demand and supporting your decarbonisation goals.
John – TEC’s carbon reduction survey highlighted that solar is a low-regret solution for members. Mmany of our members are already deploying rooftop solar successfully. Like other behind-the-meter solutions, solar enables institutions to gain more control of their energy costs.
What are the barriers to solar?
John – We know from our membership that capital funding is a significant barrier. Our membership survey also showed that whilst some institutions have rooftop solar installations, many don’t know how to extend it, or how to implement other solutions such as solar car ports. Other members highlighted that they wanted to access operation and maintenance services for their existing solar array.
Peter – Through our solar offering we aim to unlock barriers to upfront capital outlay through either a funded Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) or by accessing Community PPAs. Knowledge can also be a stumbling block, so we support institutions with information gathering and key considerations from the outset. Members can also benefit from a free feasibility study to scope any potential projects.
How can solar help institutions meet their sustainability goals and support Clean Power 2030?
John – Clean Power 2030 calls for a tripling of the amount of solar installed in Great Britain, and behind-the-meter solar can be an extremely cost-effective way to support that goal.. There is significant potential for institutions to either deploy more and different types of solar, or to pursue installing solar for the first time.
Peter – Working in collaboration with our solar partners, we can help support institutions to achieve their carbon reduction goals by including solar in the mix. Solar energy is not only a cost-effective renewable energy source, but it can also be used to generate excess energy which can then be exported to the grid.
What are the advantages to members of accessing solar services through the TEC Framework?
Peter – Through the Framework our Solar Services provide a route to market with TEC oversight on the quality of our service. Our solar partners also provide free advice and support on considering if solar is right for you. We provide comprehensive solar packages, supporting institutions from research to implementation to operation and maintenance. Solar also helps future proof organisations by providing opportunities for EV charge points or heat pumps.
John – We know from our members that they want more support with energy reduction. Our solar services are part of a wider package of behind-the-meter solutions covering lighting, BEMS and metering/analysis solutions, which we will roll out to the membership this year.
What experience is there across the membership of deploying solar successfully?
Peter – The University of Wales, Trinity Saint David is a great example of the successful deployment of solar energy. The University has installed more than 1200 solar panels on six rooftops across the estate. By doing so they have more protection from volatile energy prices and gained more control of their energy costs. TEC was able to help the University overcome some of the hurdles to self-generation including the initial cost outlay and the time required for installation.
John – Facilitating knowledge and information sharing is an important part of TEC’s role. We have introduced regular energy and carbon reduction webinars to share best practice throughout the membership. Reducing costs, consumption and carbon will be a focus of TEC’s annual conference later this year.
