Solar PV Installation at Colin Carter’s Eggs, Perranwell Station”

Colin Carters Eggs is a family-run business located in Cornwall, specialising in the production and distribution of high-quality free-range eggs. By installing a solar PV system, Colin Carters Eggs aimed to further reduce its energy costs, enhance self-sufficiency, and decrease its environmental impact.

Commercial Solar Install System Design

The installation included:

106 x JA Solar Mono Black Frame 410W Panels

Solis 36kW 3 Phase Quad

Schletter/Renusol Mounting System

Objectives of the installation:

Reduce Energy Costs: Colin Carters Eggs consumes a significant amount of electricity to power operations, including lighting, egg packing, and storage. Rising energy costs were a key concern for the business, which led them to explore renewable energy options.

Increase Self-Sufficiency: The goal was to generate a substantial portion of their electricity needs onsite, allowing the company to reduce its reliance on the grid and protect against future price hikes.

Sustainability Commitment: As a business committed to environmental responsibility, Colin Carters Eggs wanted to reduce their carbon footprint and further promote their sustainability credentials to their customers.

Benefits and Outcomes:

Significant Reduction in Energy Costs:

With the 43.46kW solar PV system, Colin Carters Eggs now generates a substantial portion of its electricity needs onsite. The estimated annual energy generation is over 39,000 kWh, which has resulted in significant savings on the farm’s electricity bills. By utilising solar power during daylight hours, the business has dramatically reduced its reliance on grid electricity. The solar PV system delivers direct annual savings of over £10,107.00 from reduced electricity costs, contributing to the rapid payback period.

Environmental Impact:

The installation of the solar PV system aligns with Colin Carters Eggs’ commitment to sustainability. By generating renewable energy onsite, the farm is reducing its carbon emissions by an estimated 7.50 tonnes of CO2 per year. This green initiative supports the farm’s long-term environmental goals and enhances its reputation as an eco-conscious business.

Long-Term Financial Benefits:

In addition to the immediate savings on energy costs, the solar PV system provides long-term financial benefits. The farm will benefit from reduced exposure to volatile energy markets and future price increases. The installation has a payback period of under 4 years, meaning that the initial investment will be recovered through energy savings in less than five years. Beyond this period, the system will continue to generate savings, essentially providing free electricity for the remaining lifespan of the panels. Over the lifetime of the system (typically 25-30 years or more), the total savings could exceed the initial investment several times over.

A Repeat Customer

This isn’t the first time Colin Carters Eggs has partnered with GreenGenUK for their renewable energy needs. In 2013, we installed a 20kW Solar PV system on their farm, helping them take their first steps towards energy independence. This latest installation is an extension to their original setup, designed to further enhance their energy generation and reduce costs.

By expanding their solar PV system, Colin Carters Eggs continues to invest in sustainability and future-proofing their business against rising energy prices, while reinforcing their commitment to environmental responsibility. This long-term partnership highlights their dedication to renewable energy solutions and the trust they’ve placed in GreenGenUK to deliver effective and reliable solar power systems.

For more information on how our solar solutions can benefit your commercial building, contact us today.