Four Elms Group

Four Elms Group

Sustainable solutions to reduce operational costs

Industry

Automotive & Bodyshop

Solution

Solar PV

System Sizes

117.45 kWp

Overview

Four Elms Group, located in Rochester, offers a comprehensive one-stop solution for accident repairs, servicing and maintenance, along with fuel and convenience facilities. To enhance their sustainability and reduce operational costs, Four Elms Group have partnered with Nuvolt to install a solar energy system.

Objective

Reduce Energy Costs: Four Elms Group aimed to decrease reliance on grid power, helping to significantly reduce their energy expenses.
Enhance Sustainability: Incorporating renewable energy into operations was essential to minimise their carbon footprint and support a greener environment.
Increase Energy Independence: By generating their own renewable energy, Four Elms Group sought to boost resilience against fluctuating energy prices.

Button
Button

Solution

Before designing and installing a solar system, a thorough analysis of the site's energy consumption is essential. This involves looking at the actual energy needs throughout different times of the day and different seasons.

Instead of installing the maximum possible number of panels, the system was designed to match the actual energy demand of the Four Elms Body Shop & Fuel Station. This approach ensures that the energy generated is efficiently used, avoiding overproduction which could lead to unnecessary costs or complications, like needing additional energy storage or dealing with excess energy export limits.

Payback

The solar energy system installed is projected to achieve a payback period of three years, meaning that the initial investment in the solar panels and installation will be recouped through energy savings within this timeframe. After these three years, the system will continue to generate substantial cost savings, effectively providing free electricity for the remainder of its lifespan, which is typically 25 years or more. This rapid payback period highlights the financial viability and efficiency of the solar energy project, highlighting it as a sound investment for the future.

"Recognising the impact of our emissions at Four Elms Group, we took a proactive approach to reduce our carbon footprint by investing in solar PV. Thanks to the support of the knowledgeable team at Nuvolt this initiative has now positioned us as leaders in sustainability within our industry.

We are now able to proudly generate our own energy, achieving independence and enhancing our resilience from the grid. This forward-thinking step not only future-proofs our operations but also opens the door for potential expansion into EV charging, further driving our commitment to a greener future."

Robert Dearnaley – Four Elms Group

Benefits of Solar for Four Elms Body Shop & Fuel Station

The solar panels generate renewable energy on-site, significantly lowering electricity bills and reducing reliance on the grid. This energy independence reduces vulnerability to fluctuating energy prices and potential power outages.

Environmental Impact: Utilising solar energy reduces the carbon footprint of the business, contributing to environmental sustainability and helping meet green business standards.

Long-term Savings: Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance and can provide significant savings over their lifespan, typically 25 years or more.

Support for Electric Vehicles (EVs): With the growing demand for electric vehicles, a solar-powered shop could consider installing EV charging stations in the future. This would attract more customers who drive electric cars.

Specific Benefits for Fuel Filling Stations

01

Reduced Operating Costs:
Given the 24/7 operation of fuel stations, solar panels significantly
cut electricity bills by generating renewable energy.

02

Environmental Benefits:

Solar energy helps reduce the carbon footprint, contributing to environmental sustainability and meeting green business standards.

03

Energy Independence:

Solar power provides a level of energy independence, reducing vulnerability
to fluctuating energy prices and potential grid outages.

04

Enhanced Brand Image:

Adopting renewable energy improves the station's reputation, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and providing a competitive edge.

05

Utilisation of Unused Space:

The large roof space of petrol stations is ideal for solar panel installation, making efficient use of otherwise unused space.

06

Long-term Savings:

Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance and provide significant savings over their lifespan, typically 25 years or more.

Impact and Future Outlook

The impact of the solar panel installation at Four Elms Body Shop & Fuel Station has been profound. The immediate reduction in energy costs has not only improved the bottom line but also set a precedent for sustainable business practices within the industry. The environmental benefits, marked by a significant decrease in carbon emissions, align with global efforts to combat climate change and position Four Elms Group as a forward-thinking leader in green initiatives.

Looking ahead, the integration of solar power sets the stage for further advancements in renewable energy usage, such as expanding EV charging stations to cater to the increasing number of electric vehicles. This forward momentum is expected to attract a broader customer base, including environmentally conscious consumers, and foster long-term growth. The successful implementation of this project also opens the door for additional investments in innovative, low-carbon technologies, ensuring that Four Elms remains at the forefront of sustainability and operational efficiency for years to come.

Conclusion

The solar panel installation at Four Elms Body Shop & Fuel Station showcases the substantial benefits of integrating renewable energy into business operations.

From reducing energy costs and environmental impact to enhancing brand image and supporting electric vehicle infrastructure, this project highlights the financial and environmental advantages of solar power. The three-year payback period highlights the efficiency and economic viability of the installation, positioning Four Elms Group as a leader in sustainable business practices.