In the quest for sustainability, organizations worldwide are increasingly turning to renewable energy sources to power their operations. One such endeavor is the installation of a 98.79kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the YMCA in Grimsby. This initiative marks a significant step towards reducing carbon footprint and embracing clean energy solutions.

The YMCA has long been a beacon of community support, providing essential services and programs to individuals and families. Now, with its foray into solar energy, it not only continues this tradition but also sets a remarkable example of environmental stewardship.

The decision to install solar panels aligns with the YMCA’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. By harnessing the power of sunlight, the organization aims to reduce its reliance on traditional energy sources, lower operational costs, and minimize its environmental impact.

The 98.79kWp solar PV installation is not merely a practical solution but also a symbol of innovation and progress. It signifies a departure from conventional energy practices towards a more sustainable future. Through this project, the YMCA demonstrates its willingness to embrace change and adapt to evolving environmental challenges.

The benefits of solar energy are manifold. Firstly, it offers a clean and renewable source of power, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By generating electricity on-site, the YMCA can contribute to local energy resilience and security. Moreover, the financial savings accrued from reduced utility bills can be redirected towards furthering the organization’s mission and supporting community initiatives.

The 267 panel has installed DC power of 98.79 kWp and is estimated to produce 84.45 MWh of solar energy every calendar year. It also helps the environment by reducing the carbon emissions by 16.33 tonnes which is equivalent to 750 trees being planted. The system consists 267 LR4-60HPH-370M black frame Longi solar panels connected to 134 P801 optimisers with one SolarEdge 82.8K.

Last year we completed a 344.89 kWp at Kirkby Leisure Centre. The PV system is estimated to produce 300 MWh of solar energy every calendar year and reducing the leisure centers carbon emissions by 57.87 tonnes which will help them be more environmentally friendly. This will also help Knowsley in hitting their target of becoming Net Carbon Zero by 2040. A commitment was also made to work with partner organisations to reduce boroughwide emissions. Since 2009/10, the council has reduced its emissions by 69%.

We used the 758 x LR4-72HPH-455M Longi solar panels with half the amount of SolarEdge P950 optimisers as they connect to two solar panels each. There are 3 inverters included in this system. two SolarEdge 100K Synergy Managers and one Solaredge 66.6K Synergy Manager.

How are Knowsley Council Reducing Emissions

Reducing carbon emissions by cutting down on gas and electricity use in council buildings has been a high priority for the programme.

The Council has successfully secured £4.2m of external grant funding from the government-funded Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS). The funding has enabled improvement projects at the Courtyard Buildings at Court Hey Park, the River Alt Resource Centre and Huyton Library, replacing gas heating systems with Air Source Heat Pumps, the installation of roof mounted solar PV arrays and LED lighting.

The works are expected to produce an annual carbon saving of up to 440 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Further external funding has also been secured to create a Heat Decarbonisation Plan for 19 council buildings. The plan identifies low-carbon heating alternatives, as well as the suitability for Solar PV, LED lighting, wall insulation and window replacement.