Goodwood Estate, famous for its historic motor circuit and events like the Festival of Speed, has long been committed to sustainability. As part of its strategy to reduce its carbon footprint, Goodwood recently took a bold step forward with the installation of a solar PV system at Redvins Barn. This installation complements existing renewable efforts, including a combined heat and power (CHP) system fuelled by biomass sourced directly from the estate.
Project Details
- Client: Goodwood Estate
- Location: Redvins Barn, Chichester, West Sussex
- Panels: Trina Vertex 450 W
- Inverters: 1 x Solis 100 kW, 1 x Solis 80 kW
- Installed Capacity: 181.35 kWp
- Estimated Annual Energy Output: 163,701 kWh
- CO₂ Emissions Avoided: 23,296 kg / year
The solar array at Redvins Barn, consisting of 403 Trina VerteX TSM-450 modules, is set to significantly contribute to Goodwood’s renewable energy generation, providing power to key areas of the estate, including Goodwood House and the Goodwood Hotel.
The installation will help the estate reduce its reliance on grid electricity and further its journey towards carbon neutrality.
Overcoming Challenges
One of the unique challenges of this project was the proximity of the solar panels to a large chimney from the biomass system.
Our team took a proactive approach by designing the system to account for potential heat impacts from the chimney, ensuring both the safety of the installation team during works and the long-term efficiency of the panels. Additionally, the system was configured to minimise shading from the chimney itself, maximising energy production throughout the year.
Key Environmental Benefits
- CO₂ Emissions Avoided:
The system will avoid approximately 23,296 kg of CO₂ emissions per year.
This is equivalent to:- Planting approximately 1,060 trees per year
- Removing the emissions of 5 cars from the road each year
- Energy Generated:
The system will generate 194,156 kWh of electricity annually, which is enough to:- Power approximately 60 UK homes for a year.
- Avoid the burning of about 71 tons of coal annually.
- Solar Energy Utilisation:
By exporting over 194,000 kWh to the grid every year, the system helps reduce the estate’s reliance on grid electricity, further reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a greener energy mix.
Future Expansion
With the successful installation of the Redvins Barn system and the constant search for ways to reduce its carbon emissions, Goodwood Estate plans to continue expanding its solar infrastructure. Additional installations are planned for other buildings, including further integration at the biomass site. This will tie together multiple energy systems across the estate, bringing Goodwood closer to its ambitious low-carbon goals.
Why This Matters
This project is not just about meeting energy needs—it’s about aligning with Goodwood’s core values of environmental stewardship and sustainability. By embracing solar energy, the estate is making a lasting commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, preserving its natural heritage, and setting a powerful example for other commercial properties.
Our team is proud to have partnered with Goodwood Estate on this transformative project. As we move toward the final stages of installation, we are excited about the long-term benefits this project will bring to both Goodwood’s energy efficiency and its broader sustainability efforts.
