The Waterside Centre

Project Overview

The Guildford Waterside Centre – a modern riverside commercial complex in Surrey – set out to find a long-term solution to reduce its carbon footprint and improve energy resilience. Operated entirely on a voluntary basis, the Centre aimed to lower running costs while supporting its sustainability goals.

Titan Eco was appointed to design and install a high-performance solar PV and battery storage system, part-funded through a LoCASE grant. The installation provides dependable renewable power throughout the year, with integrated battery storage to maximise efficiency and self-consumption.

This forward-looking investment formed a key part of the Centre’s broader strategy to enhance efficiency, reduce emissions and demonstrate environmental leadership within the local community.

SYSTEM COMPONENTS

1. Solar panels: 81 × Canadian Solar 410W modules (33.21 kWp) – high-efficiency panels from a Tier-1 manufacturer, offering proven long-term reliability and backed by comprehensive product and performance warranties.
2. Inverter: Solis 30 kW 3-phase inverter – delivering high conversion efficiency with smart connectivity for remote monitoring and fault detection, and built-in protection features.
3. Battery storage: 2 × Tesla Powerwall units (27 kWh) – for backup power and time-shifting of energy use, reducing grid reliance – features including real-time monitoring and self-learning software to optimise performance.
4. Mounting system: K2 mounting – German-engineered aluminium and stainless-steel components for strength and durability. Corrosion-resistant, weather-proof and fully certified for wind and snow loads under UK building standards.
5. Pigeon-proofing: Our premium pigeon proofing system, SolaSkirt® – preventing birds from nesting beneath the panels and protecting cabling. Made from black powder-coated aluminium for longevity, it provides a clean edge that integrates seamlessly with the solar array.

IMPLEMENTATION

1. Assessment & design: A survey was carried out to assess roof suitability, shading, and structural capacity. A tailored 3-array configuration was then developed to optimise generation across multiple roof aspects.
2. Installation: The K2 framework was fitted, with corrosion-resistant fittings for a secure, weather-proof base. The solar panels were then positioned and secured to the mounting across the 3 rooves. The Solis 3-phase inverter and 2 Tesla Powerwalls were subsequently installed and connected.
3. Commissioning: All components were integrated to ensure seamless operation between the solar array, inverter and batteries. The system then underwent full electrical testing and DNO approval before activation.

RESULTS

The 33.21 kWp solar PV system now generates just under 30,000 kWh of clean electricity each year, offsetting a significant share of the Centre’s energy use and reducing carbon emissions by approximately 15 tonnes annually.

The project is expected to achieve a 3-year payback period and deliver annual savings of over £15,000.

With 27 kWh of battery storage, the system enhances The Waterside Centre’s energy resilience, supports peak-time load management and provides full visibility through live performance monitoring. The installation has also strengthened the Centre’s long-term sustainability while freeing up future funds for community-focused initiatives.

Please note: The savings quoted in these case studies are indicative and will vary depending on the size of your system, your annual energy generation, and ongoing electricity costs. Actual savings may differ.