750 kW Solar PV scheme

The problem

FDC Holdings is a large transport company specializing in freight shipping across the region, operating a fleet of 120 vehicles. With a strong commitment to sustainability, FDC Holdings sought to reduce its carbon footprint and energy costs to improve profitability and environmental responsibility.

As energy costs continued to rise and environmental regulations tightened, FDC Holdings faced increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. The company was looking for an effective solution to reduce its operational expenses and minimize its impact on the environment. They aimed to cut energy bills by at least 30% and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% over the next five years.

The Solution

After evaluating several renewable energy options, FDC Holdings decided to install a 750kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system on the roof of their central distribution hub. The decision was driven by the following considerations:

Energy Savings: The solar system was expected to generate approximately 900,000 kWh annually, significantly reducing the company’s reliance on grid electricity.
⁠Sustainability Goals: The solar installation aligned with FDC Holdings’s long-term sustainability goals, enhancing their corporate social responsibility profile.

The Implementation

The project was executed in three phases:

Site Assessment: A thorough evaluation of the distribution hub’s roof and energy consumption patterns was conducted to design an optimal solar solution.
Installation: The installation took place over two months, involving minimal disruption to daily operations. The system utilized Aiko solar panels, all rated as Bloomberg Tier 1, ensuring high efficiency and reliability.
Monitoring and Maintenance: A SolarEdge monitoring system was installed to track energy production and system performance, ensuring optimal operation and timely maintenance.

The results

Within the first year of operation, FDC Holdings realized the following outcomes:

•⁠ ⁠Energy Cost Reduction: The company reduced its electricity bills by 35%.

•⁠ ⁠Carbon Footprint Reduction: By generating clean energy, FDC Holdings decreased its carbon emissions by 25%, meaning this remarkable project is also set to offset carbon emissions equivalent to:

•⁠ ⁠🚗 4.6 million gallons of diesel consumed

•⁠ ⁠🌳 177,000 tree seedlings grown over 10 years

•⁠ ⁠🛢️ 24,921 barrels of oil consumed

•⁠ ⁠💡 410,294 lightbulbs switched to LED

•⁠ ⁠Positive Brand Impact: The commitment to renewable energy enhanced FDC Holdings’s market position, attracting environmentally conscious clients and increasing business opportunities.

Lessons Learned

Long-term Planning: It’s essential to consider the long-term benefits of renewable energy investments, including potential savings and environmental impacts.
Stakeholder Engagement: Involving all stakeholders, from employees to clients, in the sustainability journey fosters a culture of environmental responsibility.
Continuous Monitoring: Regularly assessing system performance ensures that the solar PV installation meets energy production expectations and allows for timely adjustments.

Conclusion

The installation of a 750kW solar PV system has proven to be a successful strategy for FDC Holdings, leading to significant cost savings and a substantial reduction in their carbon footprint. This project not only aligned with their sustainability objectives but also positioned them as a leader in eco-friendly transport solutions. Moving forward, FDC Holdings plans to explore additional renewable energy avenues, including electric vehicles and energy storage solutions, to further enhance their sustainability efforts.

Client Testimonial

Cornerstone Group’s performance on this project was faultless. The communication with tenants enabled the works to be carried out whilst the units remained fully occupied. All of the work was carried out on time and within budget. I would have no problem recommending Cornerstone Group for any future works.