Space Station, located in Shrewsbury, is a modern and secure storage facility serving individuals and businesses in the area. Recognizing the need for sustainable energy solutions and cost savings, the facility decided to implement a solar panel installation project.
Client Name
Space Station Self Storage
Location
Shrewsbury
Project Date
October 2023
Project Overview
- Client Objective: To harness solar power, reduce energy costs, and contribute to a greener future while showcasing a commitment to sustainable practices in the technology industry.
System Specifications
- Total Panels: 240x Trina 420W Panels
- Panel Type: Monocrystalline
- Mounting System: K2 Mini Rail Mounting
- Inverter Type: Solis 100kW Inverter
- Energy Storage: 3x Tesla Powerwalls
- Roof Type: Metal Trapezoidal
Challenges and Objectives
Space Station had several objectives when considering the solar panel installation project:
- Reduce Energy Costs: The facility aimed to significantly reduce its electricity costs by generating clean, renewable energy from solar panels.
- Environmental Sustainability: As part of its corporate responsibility, Space Station wanted to minimize its carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment.
- Energy Independence: By utilizing Tesla Powerwalls, the facility aimed to store excess energy for meeting energy demand or overnight consumption.
- Reliable and Efficient Operation: The installation needed to provide a reliable and efficient source of electricity to meet the storage facility’s power demands.
Solution
- Solar Panels: The project incorporated 240 high-efficiency Trina 420W solar panels. These panels were strategically installed using the K2 mini rail mounting system, maximizing space and solar energy generation.
- Inverter: A 100kW Solis Inverter was chosen to convert the direct current (DC) generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) for use within the facility. The inverter’s capacity was designed to efficiently handle the electricity generated by the 240 solar panels.
- Tesla Gateway: While the Tesla Gateway was not wired for backup power, it served as a central monitoring and control hub for the solar installation. It enabled the facility’s management to track energy generation and consumption in real-time.
- Battery Storage: Three Tesla Powerwalls were integrated into the system, providing energy storage capabilities. These Powerwalls allowed Space Station Storage to store excess energy generated during the day for use during the night or during periods of high demand.
Installation Process
- Site Assessment: TA comprehensive site assessment was conducted to determine the optimal panel orientation and placement on the available rooftop space.
- Panel Installation: The 42 JA Solar panels were securely installed using K2 Mini Rail mounting, with meticulous attention to structural integrity and weatherproofing.
- Inverter Setup: The Solis 15kW inverter was installed along with a communications dongle to facilitate efficient energy conversion and real-time monitoring capabilities.
Conclusion
The solar panel installation at Space Station in Shrewsbury not only reduced operational costs but also aligned with the facility’s sustainability goals. It showcases the feasibility and benefits of solar energy integration for commercial applications while ensuring reliable power supply through energy storage solutions. Space Station Storage has set an example of responsible energy use and environmental stewardship for other businesses in the region.
