Having an array of Solar PV Panel is a great way of reducing a dwellings carbon emissions and primary energy consumption, and help to gain compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations. They are also an effective way of reducing running costs for consumers and increasing EPC ratings.
Any increase to the EPC rating due to its use, however, depends on how the array is metered, and whether there is a direct connection to the dwelling.
For single dwellings, connecting an array to the dwelling is easy. There is one dwelling and one array, and one electricity meter to connect to.
For multiple dwellings that share a single array, this connection becomes more complicated as there are numerous electricity meters to connect to. If the PV is connected to the landlord’s meter, this means that there is no connection to the dwellings meter. This means there are net-savings in emissions and primary energy for Part L, but due to the lack of connection to a dwelling’s own electricity meter, there is no EPC and running cost benefit for the occupiers.
Alternatively, if there is a distribution board, this can connect each flat to the PV array. Here, the electricity generated is divided amongst the flats on an area-weighted basis according to each dwellings floor area.
This arrangement, while providing Part L and EPC benefits, is not always a perfect system as the distribution of PV from the single array is fairly rigid, and there is no way of adjusting this unless multiple arrays are used.
This becomes particularly important when a development has a target for EPC ratings that not all dwellings actually achieve. A solar-share meter system, such as the SolShare system from Allume, allows for a bespoke distribution of power among dwellings from a single PV array, meaning those struggling to meet EPC targets can receive more of a benefit as and when required.
In addition to this, Solar-Share meters are export-capable. This means that if there is a surplus of generated electricity at times when supply exceeds demand, it can be fed into the grid, generating revenue for the developer.
Overall, this is a system that benefits the occupants reducing running costs, as well as benefiting developers by ensuring ever-tightening EPC targets are met, while providing a revenue stream for them when exporting the surplus generation.
For further insights or advice on the use of PV and SolShare systems please call us on 01865 378885 or through the Contact Us form.