Customer: John Barr Cars
Industry: Automotive Sales and Service
System Size: 15kW
No of Panels: 33
No of Inverters: 1 Solis Inverter
Carbon Savings Annually: 4,140 kg
Carbon Saved Within Panel Warranty: 66,240 kg
Solar Installation at John Barr Cars
John Barr Cars, a renowned dealership in Northern Ireland specializing in new and used vehicles, including Isuzu pickups, faced a significant increase in electricity costs after their previous contract ended, so the business began exploring renewable energy options. Solar power emerged as the most practical and beneficial solution, offering both cost savings and environmental benefits.
Installation Overview
Solarfix installed a 15kW solar panel system at John Barr Cars, consisting of 33 high-efficiency panels and a SolarEdge inverter. This setup was designed to maximise energy production while maintaining operational efficiency.
John Barr’s aesthetic is all about sleek professionalism, from the vehicles they sell to the premises they operate in. To complement this, Solarfix discreetly installed the solar system on their metal flat roof, preserving the building’s clean and polished appearance. While the look remains unchanged, the electricity bills have seen a remarkable transformation.
In addition to the solar panels, John also selected the three-phase My Energi Zappi car charger. This smart charger provides flexibility by allowing vehicles to either trickle charge using surplus solar energy or fast charge directly from the grid. This feature is particularly valuable for a business in the automotive industry, offering future-proofing as the industry shifts towards electric vehicles.
Currently, John Barr Cars has chosen not to install home storage batteries, but they have the option to add them in the future if they find they are exporting too much energy back to the grid. This flexibility allows the dealership to further optimize the system’s performance and reduce external energy reliance.
Furthermore, John has the option to install an Eddi immersion heater controller in the future. As long as the property has an immersion and water tank, this device would be compatible and could use surplus solar generation to heat water, thereby reducing heating bills.
Environmental and Financial Impact
In the first 15 months since installation, the solar system has generated an impressive 18,000 kWh of electricity, resulting in savings of approximately £6,000. The dealership has also been able to export excess energy back to the grid, earning additional income through Power NI’s export tariff.
From an environmental standpoint, the system has already saved 4,140 kg of carbon emissions over the first 18 months. Over the 25-year warranty period of the solar panels, the total carbon savings are expected to reach 66,240 kg, contributing significantly to the dealership's sustainability goals.
Health & Safety and Project Management
Solarfix managed the installation with a strong focus on health and safety, ensuring minimal disruption to the daily operations at John Barr Cars. The Solarfix team worked closely with the dealership to maintain access to key areas, such as the showroom and service centre, throughout the installation.
As a recognized SolarEdge Preferred Installer and Duracell Energy Platinum Partner, Solarfix provided top-tier products and installation services. While the system currently does not include 5kW battery storage or an Eddi immersion heater controller, it remains fully adaptable for future upgrades.
Ongoing Partnership
John Barr Cars selected Solarfix after a glowing recommendation from a customer who had recently installed a solar system with us. After reviewing Solarfix’s excellent online reviews, John felt confident in his choice, stating, “Five stars all round, couldn’t find a bad word to be said about Solarfix.”
John emphasizes the importance of solar energy in achieving Net Zero goals and highlights the significant cost savings achieved within just 18 months. He strongly recommends Solarfix to any business looking to reduce energy costs and enhance sustainability, noting the ease of installation and the financial benefits already realised.
The partnership between John Barr Cars and Solarfix didn’t end with the solar installation. Since then, Solarfix has purchased several vans from John Barr Cars, exemplifying the importance of small businesses supporting each other. This ongoing relationship highlights the mutual respect and trust that has developed between the two companies.
Call to Action
If you would like to see how Solarfix can help your business, farm or home do not hesitate to contact us on 0800 246 5198 or complete our contact form here.
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