After the success of a small-scale PV installation at one of its mine water treatment schemes, the Coal Authority identified the use of solar as a cost-effective and efficient strategy that would help improve their future economic performance, whilst enhancing its sustainable development.
This led the authority to put out to tender a framework agreement with the aim of finding partners to supply and install solar PV systems and other innovative energy measures across its estate.
Following a comprehensive tender process, the Coal Authority selected HBS New Energies as one of the principal PV contractors and the Commercial PV Division will be responsible for the design, supply, construction and operation of ground and roof mounted PV installations.
HBS New Energies were successful in their tender bid for the first release of all identified sites and work is now nearing completion at (Chester South Moor 74kWp, Deerplay 250kWp and Old Meadows 60kWp).
The solar PV systems are set to generate a combined total 317,065 kWh of zero carbon electricity a year, and deliver 167.72 tonnes in annual carbon savings. The renewable energy consumed will help to off-set the cost of pumping the mines water at their treatment sites, therefore reducing the authority’s increasing operational costs.
The HBS New Energies technical team are now working closely with the Coal Authority on the feasibility, planning and development for the next release of sites identified for large-scale ground mount solar PV installations.
Phil Broughton, Innovation Project Manager for the Coal Authority, said: “We were very pleased with the responsiveness and commitment given by HBS New Energies to deliver these projects against tight deadlines. It’s great to see the immediate benefit brought by the solar arrays in terms of low carbon sustainability and operational cost savings.”
Stuart Gentry, Business Development Director HBS New Energies commented:“This large-scale solar PV programme is a clear sign of the authority’s future intentions as they look to increase their on-site renewable energy generation. The deployment of solar power will help the Coal Authority to meet its aim of off-setting the costs of managing water treatment on site, whilst enhancing their sustainable operations.”
