The two solar PV systems were installed at the depot over summer 2018 funded by the CleanMobilEnergy project. The solar panels mounted to the roofs of the Tyne and Tamar buildings are expected to generate more than 72,000 kWh of renewable electricity in the next 12 months, saving over 20 tonnes of CO2 emissions and nearly £10,000 in energy costs. Even with the dull winter weather now setting in, the systems were able to generate over 1,750 kWh of renewable electricity over the past month, equating to around half a ton reduction in CO2 emissions.
To complete their City Pilot, Nottingham City Council (NCC) will install a further PV system with a minimum of 60kWp, as well as upgrade the electrical infrastructure at the depot to support 40 Vehicle to Grid (V2G) units and a stationary battery. Their operational fleet is having an upgrade and 40 electric vans will also be procured. The solar power generated at the site will not only help to power the site, but also to charge the fleet of Electric vehicles, with any excess power being stored in the battery.
The project will demonstrate innovative bi-directional V2G charging units to enable Eastcroft to use vehicles for short-term energy storage which together with the battery, will enable Eastcroft to reduce its peak demand and reliance on grid power supply.
