A 34kW Commercial Solar Panel Installation in Cambridge
- Tom Clarkson
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
Project Overview:
Client: Commercial Premises in Cambridgeshire
Location: Cambridge
Project Type: Commercial Solar PV System Installation
System Size: 34kW
System Components:
76 x 440W All Black Solar Panels
1 x 16kW Sunsynk Inverter
1 x 8kW Sunsynk Inverter
1 x 3.68kW Sunsynk Inverter
2 x MyEnergi Zappi Car Chargers
Special Requirements:
Three single-phase meters required three separate inverters
Multiple DNO applications were needed for grid connection approval
Introduction:
A business in Cambridge sought to reduce its operational energy costs and environmental impact by installing a large-scale commercial solar PV system. The goal was to maximise on-site renewable energy generation while also offering staff the ability to charge their electric vehicles (EVs) with free solar power.
Optimum Electrics provided a bespoke solar system design, full project management including multiple DNO (Distribution Network Operator) applications, and expert installation to ensure compliance with all grid connection regulations.
Challenges & Considerations:
Multiple Grid Connections:
With three single-phase meters, a standard single-inverter setup was not feasible. Instead, the system had to be divided across three separate inverters (16kW, 8kW, and 3.68kW) to align with the site’s electrical infrastructure.
DNO Applications & Approvals:
Each inverter required a separate DNO application. Optimum Electrics managed the entire process, ensuring compliance with grid requirements.
Optimised Solar Design for Maximum Efficiency:
The bespoke solar system design had to balance energy distribution across all three meters while maximising on-site consumption.
EV Charging Integration:
Two Zappi car chargers were installed to allow staff to charge their electric vehicles directly from solar energy, reducing their commuting costs and promoting sustainable transport.
Installation Process:
1. Solar System Design & DNO Application Management
Optimum Electrics designed a 34kW system with 76 all black 440W solar panels, ensuring maximum efficiency and aesthetic integration.
Three separate inverters were strategically chosen to distribute the generated power across the site’s existing electrical infrastructure.
DNO applications for each inverter were meticulously prepared and submitted, ensuring all regulatory approvals were secured before installation commenced.
2. Installation
Panel Installation: The 76 panels were installed across available roof space, optimised for sun exposure.
Inverter Installation: The three Sunsynk inverters (16kW, 8kW, and 3.68kW) were installed in designated areas.
Electrical Configuration: The system was wired to distribute generated power correctly across the three meters.
3. EV Charger Installation
Two MyEnergi Zappi chargers were installed in the staff parking area, configured to prioritise solar energy for vehicle charging.
4. System Testing & Commissioning
The entire system underwent rigorous testing to ensure seamless operation, optimal energy distribution, and compliance with grid regulations.
Staff were given a demonstration on how to use the Zappi chargers and monitor solar production.
Results & Benefits:
✅ Significant Cost Savings:
The business now generates a large proportion of its electricity needs from solar energy, reducing energy bills and insulating against future energy price rises.
✅ Sustainable Employee Benefits:
Staff can charge their EVs for free using renewable energy, reducing their commuting costs and carbon footprint.
✅ Environmental Impact:
The 34kW system significantly reduces CO₂ emissions, contributing to the company’s sustainability targets.
✅ Future-Proofed Energy Solution:
The system is scalable, meaning additional solar capacity or battery storage can be integrated in the future as energy demands grow.
Conclusion:
The 34kW commercial solar installation at this Cambridgeshire business highlights how a tailored solar solution can maximise renewable energy benefits despite complex grid constraints. Optimum Electrics delivered a bespoke system design, managed multiple DNO applications, and provided a seamless installation, ensuring cost savings, sustainability, and employee benefits.
By integrating solar power with EV charging, this project serves as a model for other businesses looking to transition to a greener and more energy-independent future.
Looking to install a solar PV system on your home or business premises? Contact our team today for expert advise and a free, no obligation quote and solar design.
01733 601698
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