The photovoltaic (PV) project at IP5, Newport, is a part of ambitions to decarbonise the NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership estate.
Introduction
The photovoltaic (PV) project at IP5, Newport, is a part of NWSSP ambitions to decarbonise our estate in accordance with the targets detailed in the NHS Wales Decarbonisation Strategic Delivery Plan published in March 2021.
As part of the programme, Shared Services is implementing a range of decarbonisation initiatives including installing PV, Electric Vehicle Charging Points (EVCPs), building fabric improvements and energy monitoring. After completing initial surveys, it was highlighted that the NWSSP IP5 warehouse site had a high potential for a generation of clean energy through PV use.
Challenge
The roof option was initially discounted due to issues with the existing roof condition and suitability for installing panels. There were onerous conditions imposed on the project by the local planning authority due to the closeness to the Gwent Levels, including conditions around drainage, ecological and construction mitigation requirements. These were successfully fulfilled, but did take time to resolve to the satisfaction of the Authorities.
Approach
NWSSP completed a feasibility study for solar PV on this site, examining the potential for PV at both the large roof space and also for the ground grassed area to the rear of the site. NWSSP progressed with the design for the ground-mounted solar PV option.
The project included installing EVCP infrastructure as part of the design and installation, including electrical infrastructure to enable future changes to feed via the PV system.
Contributes towards
Well Being of Future Generations Act 2015
- Globally responsible (on site renewable energy generation, use of local suppliers etc.)
Welsh Government decarbonisation Strategic Delivery Plan (Initiative 10 – Onsite renewable energy generation)
Impacts and outcomes
Implementing a solar project such as this can address several existing issues related to energy and carbon use, providing solutions that contribute to sustainability and environmental goals.
The project included installing EVCP infrastructure as part of the design and installation, including electrical infrastructure to enable future changes to feed via the PV system.
We have already achieved nearly 90% of the power being used in a moment in time on a sunny day in November (2024). The project consists of 330kw solar PV array, potentially generating approx. 290,479kWh of electricity per annum.
Lessons learnt and future planning
The onerous conditions imposed on the project by the local planning authority did take time to resolve to the satisfaction of the Authorities. NWSSP did try to mitigate the risk by undertaking pre planning submissions/consultation but in hindsight did not add any value or save any time. Going forward we would run the planning application in conjunction with the successful Contractor construction phase.
