Action Renewables charitable objectives include mitigating against the effects of climate change and supporting the voluntary sector on the journey to Net Zero. Through our flagship Solar PV Support Programme, many voluntary sector organisations have already benefitted from the installation of energy efficient solar panels.
Open to applications from Northern Ireland non-profit organisations, it supports beneficiaries to generate a self-supply of renewable electricity, benefit from reduced energy consumption and tariffs and supports the voluntary sector to decarbonise. Through the initiative Action Renewables will fully fund further Solar PV installations on community buildings across Northern Ireland (subject to eligibility criteria being met). Solar PV Support Programme
An onsite renewable energy installation also benefits participating organisations by effectively demonstrating its commitment to reducing carbon emissions, in addition to fulfilling important Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria. The PV installation also provides a significant visible commitment and educational resource for building users in the transition to Net Zero.
What are the financial benefits of the Solar PV Support Programme?
Installing a solar energy system on your building through the programme, will save you money on your electricity bills and protect your organisation against rising electricity rates in the future.
The electricity generated from the solar PV system will be charged to the organisation at a significantly discounted unit rate in comparison to grid sourced electricity.
How much an organisation saves depends on current utility rates and the profile of building usage, but transitioning to solar will support with lowering operational costs.
What are the environmental benefits of solar energy?
Benefits include onsite renewable energy generation from your own premises. Solar power, like other renewable energy resources, has many environmental and health benefits. This self-supply will offset the demand of fossil derived energy reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), and results in fewer air pollutants like sulphur dioxide and particulate matter, which can cause health problems. Solar PV will offer significant carbon savings to the beneficiary and these green credentials can be promoted and used to support funding applications.
The latest carbon emissions figures for grid electricity in Northern Ireland is 234 g/kWh*. Installing a 12kWh solar pv system for example, with an estimated output of 10,560 kWh would equate to an estimated annual carbon saving of 2.471 tonnes through offsetting imported electricity. Over a 20-year period this amounts to an impressive 49.26 tonnes of carbon sequestration, the equivalent of planting 2353 trees.
(*Source: UREGNIs Fuel Mix Disclosure)
What is the environmental impact of the programme to date?
Renewable electricity generated to date: 220,580 kWh.
Offsetting 7,754 kg of carbon emissions.
Equivalent carbon sequestration of planting 2,458 trees.
Offering energy cost savings of over £27,000 to beneficiaries (at current electricity prices).
Transport Training Board (TTB), is one of the beneficiaries of the programme:
“It only seems like yesterday that our application with Action Renewables was accepted, closely followed by the efficient installation of 38 Solar Panels on our workshop roof.
“A year and a half later, thanks to the energy generated by these panels, TTB have planted the equivalent of 227 trees. An achievement that we are immensely proud of!
“On top of this environmental achievement, we have also saved close to £4000 on our electricity bill. The timing for this was perfect when we were all experiencing rocketing energy costs due to global influences.
“As a charity in the transport industry, it is fantastic to take advantage of initiatives that create a dual impact, and there is nothing more rewarding when those two elements are money and the environment.
“Thanks very much to the Action Renewables Team for this great initiative and the ongoing support.”
Michael Strain, Chief Executive Officer, Transport Training Board
Our Responsibilities?
Action Renewables will retain ownership of the solar PV system and assume all costs associated with cap ex for equipment, the installation, maintenance and repair of the system for the duration of the 20-year contract. There is no cost to participating organisations.
We initiate a tender process for the installation of each successful Solar PV application. Only Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accredited installers are invited to tender and are required to specify MCS accredited, Tier 1 equipment.
Action Renewables is responsible for all planning permissions, engagement with building control, grid connection amendments and associated charges.
How can my organisation save even more money?
In addition to installing Solar PV, your organisation could reduce energy costs further by shopping around for a cheaper electricity supplier to significantly reduce the unit cost per kWh you are currently paying.
Competitive energy rates are available and should be reviewed annually. The Consumer Council Electricity Price Comparison table indicates current supplier prices and is a useful guide.
Being more energy efficient by moving your electricity load to the daytime when the panels are generating electricity will also encourage additional cost savings. For example, moving high energy demand tasks to a time during the day such as operating tumble dryers etc will enable you to save more money on your energy bills.
To find out how your organisation can benefit from the programme visit our website, Solar PV Support Programme, or to register your interest, please email info@actionrenewables.co.uk or call (028) 9072 7760.
Author: Action Renewables