Renewable energy sources are seen by many to be the sensible future for electricity generation. Photovoltaics (PV) has an important part to play in this future. Every building has a roof structure and in many instances these provide ideal sites for the inclusion of solar modules.
Putting our work in context, buildings use almost half of the UK’s generated electricity and account for 30% of CO2 emissions. PV is the most useful form of micro renewable energy to counter CO2 because the conventionally generated electricity which it replaces has a relatively high carbon density of 0.43kg/CO2/kWh.
At Beco, one of the first organisations to become government-approved installers, we help households, businesses and communities to reduce emissions, to become more self sufficient in energy needs and to limit the impact of rising electricity costs.
Domestic
Domestic systems typically range from 2 kWp to 5 kWp and can be installed on almost any building. Beco supply a range of products from leading manufacturers, which enable the optimum installation, whether it be an integrated or above roof system. |
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Commercial Buildings
The increasing demands of Building Regulations are forcing more and more developments to look at ways of balancing the ‘thermal model’ for commercial buildings. A photovoltaic system is an ideal solution in these instances. By providing C02 free energy, a PV system can counteract other areas of high heat/energy loss.
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Community Buildings
Beco have vast experience in this field, having worked with Village Halls, Schools, Churches and Community service buildings. |
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Architect Service
Our experienced team will work with architects from initial concept to final installation, we also provide a tailored educational presentation (CPD) for architects practices who are looking to learn more about this technology.
FAQs - Please click on a question to reveal the answer
What is meant by “grid-connected” ?
The PV array’s DC output is converted to AC by a special inverter which is connected in parallel with part of the national grid known as the local electricity network feeding the building. PV systems of this type are thus "embedded generators" which will export electricity to the grid when not being consumed within the building.
Why grid-connect ?
This is done to save on the cost of conventional electricity storage using batteries. As PV output is zero at night and varies with the weather & season, buildings with grid-PV systems will always need a mains supply.
Where does this parallel connection take place ?
Within the meter cabinet.
What regulations cover the electrical installation ?
G59/1 & G77 issued by The Electricity Association.
What electrical protection is required ?
Grid-PV inverters will shut down if the local network supply fails, this ensures that engineers working on a fault are not exposed to risk. In addition there is a requirement that inverter output can be manually isolated by network engineers via a lockable isolator fitted in the meter cabinet.
Will I require special or extra metering ?
The original meter recording imported electricity (kWhs) may be supplemented by an additional one recording exported kWhs or a new type of digital meter may be fitted which records both import and export. A meter may not be required in an application where the building base load exceeds the peak array output.
Who can install a GC PV system ?
Systems must be designed, installed and commissioned by Accredited Installers in order to comply with the requirements of the Energy Savings Trust Solar Grant Scheme introduced on the 1st May 2002.
What is the payback period ?
This is difficult to answer as it is dependant upon the type of modules used, the method of installation and the geographical location. If the array is integrated, say into a roof structure, then savings will be made due to the displacement of conventional building materials. Please Note - VAT on an installed domestic PV system has been reduced to 5%.
Is permission required ?
Yes, you cannot connect a generator to the grid without a Parallel Connection Agreement from your DNO. Most Distribution Network Operators have experience of PV systems now. BecoSolar will apply for this on your behalf.
Is any maintenance required ?
Apart from cleaning the array no maintenance is required.
What is the system life ?
The warranty period on BP Solar modules suitable for grid applications is 25 years, the lifetime of the modules is confidently expected to be much longer than the warranty period. The system carries a two year on-site warranty
PV Energy Purchase
It is probable that some of the energy a grid-connected PV system generates will be 'exported' into the national grid. These exported kWhs can be sold to a number of electricity supply companies, please follow the links below or call the individuals concerned.
This is not an exhaustive list so we would encourage you to surf the net to see if there are more offers.
| Company / Products |
Website |
Contact details |
EDF Energy |
Green Tariff |
Mark Thompson 01273 428641 |
nPower juice |
nPower juice
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0800 316 2610
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Good Energy |
Good Energy
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‘Home Generation Team’ 01249 766090
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Green Energy UK
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Green Energy
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Ramsay Dunning 0845 456 9550
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