Two Northumberland-based solar energy firms have joined forces to install a bespoke solar PV system on the roof of the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult Technology Development Centre in Blyth.
SCJ Renewables and Solar Capture Technologies worked together to design and install the custom array, using Solar Capture Technologies’ innovative composite solar tiles. The 106kWp system is made up of 530 solar panels, and ORE claims that it is capable of generating 90,000kWh of energy per year, and will save an estimated 42,000kg of CO2 emissions.
The Blyth facility is home to a significant amount of research and development testing carried out by ORE Catapult. As reported by our sister site, Current±, the Blyth testing facility received a major funding injection last spring. UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) awarded the Blyth facility £85.6 million in May of last year, allowing the facility to upgrade its testing facilities.
The newly expanded facilities will be capable of testing wind turbine blades up to 150 metres long and drive trains up to 23MW. UKRI also notes that the facilities will also have capacity to expand further if the industry demands it, potentially being able to test turbines up to 180 metres long and with drive trains of up to 28MW. Furthermore, this expansion created 30 new jobs in Blyth and will support five PhD research projects each year.
Lewis Caseley, commercial director of Solar Capture Technologies said: “We’re incredibly proud to see our innovative composite solar tiles installed at ORE Catapult, showcasing the future of renewable energy solutions in the UK.
“Designed, manufactured, and installed in Northumberland, this installation demonstrates how our product can redefine roofing by combining sustainable energy generation with exceptional functionality and design without compromising on aesthetics or practicality.”
Sean McIntyre, managing director of SCJ Renewables, added: “As an industry, we need to utilise local expertise and supply chains to ensure renewable energy solutions are functional and efficient. ORE Catapult encapsulates just that, and we’re excited to see how the industry will continue to grow within the region.”
Ian McGuigan, facilities service & contracts manager for ORE Catapult commented: “As a home for energy innovation, we’re delighted to have this next-generation energy solution installed on our latest development at the National Renewable Energy Centre in Blyth.
“Using a renewable energy source that helps to prove a brand-new technology whilst reducing the building’s CO2 emissions is a win-win for us, as well as supporting two local businesses who are committed to reducing the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels.”