Steel Build Ltd Solar Solution

Overview 

Location: Tythe Farm 
Date of Installation: August 2025 
Type: Commercial 
Mounting Type: Roof-mounted steel building 
Panel Count: 356 × Trina 455W Solar Panels 
System Size: 162.0 kWp 
Inverter: Huawei 115 kW Three-Phase Inverter (final installation) 
Battery Storage: None 
Finance: Customer-financed through Chiltern Solar’s finance option 

System Overview 

The installation consisted of 356 high-efficiency Trina 455W solar panels, mounted on a robust Renusol Metasole roof-mounting system designed for large commercial steel structures. The array is powered by a Huawei 115 kW three-phase inverter, providing exceptional efficiency and reliability while optimising the energy yield of the system. 
 
All mechanical and electrical works were delivered in line with MCS and BS7671:2018+A3:2024 standards, including full commissioning, certification, and notification to the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) under a G99 application. 
 
The system is estimated to generate approximately 130,000 kWh of clean energy per year, significantly reducing grid dependence and operational energy costs for Steel Build. 

Performance Estimates 

Estimated Annual Generation: ~130,000 kWh 
Estimated Self-Consumption: 21% 
Export to Grid: 79% 
Annual CO₂ Reduction: ~ 25,851kg
 
This generation supports Steel Build in offsetting the equivalent carbon emissions of approximately 92,326 miles driven by a diesel vehicle or the annual CO₂ absorption of 1,250 mature trees. 

Installation Summary 

The project involved the installation of a large solar array across the steel roof of the Wessex Building. Work was completed by approved subcontractors under the supervision of Chiltern Solar’s project management team. 
 
A full scaffold access system was installed by a Chiltern Solar–approved scaffolding partner, providing a safe working environment for all trades. All electrical works were performed to BS7671:2018+A3:2024 standards, ensuring compliance and long-term safety. 
 
Normal working hours were maintained (Monday–Friday, 08:00–17:00), with all activities carefully coordinated to minimise disruption to Steel Build’s ongoing operations. 

Financial and Environmental Benefits 

Through the integration of renewable energy into its operations, Steel Build has enhanced its sustainability credentials and reduced its long-term exposure to fluctuating energy costs. 

Funding: 100% over 7 years, structured to make the investment as cash positive as possible, given that the customer wanted to use other capital for expansions and wants to minimise overheads.

System Size & Cost: 161.98 kWp, costing £62,129.

 Monitoring & Maintenance 

The system is monitored remotely using the Huawei Fusion Solar platform, enabling Chiltern Solar and the client to track real-time energy production, performance ratios, and system status. Any anomalies or performance deviations trigger automatic alerts, ensuring system uptime and efficiency remain high. 

Installed and Commissioned by 

Chiltern Solar Ltd 
MCS Accredited Installer (NAP 28870) 
RECC Member (44711)