Project Overview
Orange Solar Systems Ltd designed and proposed a bespoke high-efficiency solar PV solution for Peter in Brunel Road, Redbridge, Southampton. The installation features a 2.7 kW solar array consisting of six Trina Vertex S+ 450W Dual Glass Full Black N-Type Mono solar panels.
By utilizing dual-glass technology, these panels deliver exceptional reliability in harsh environmental conditions alongside superior light trapping for maximum output. To convert the solar energy into usable electricity, the system incorporates one Fox ESS F Series (G3) 3kW single-phase dual-MPPT string inverter, model F3000-G2. The setup operates without battery storage as a PV-only system optimised for daytime self-consumption and grid export, with the full array securely mounted on the West-facing concrete tile roof using the German-engineered Renusol pitched roof mounting system.
System Components Summary
The complete hardware setup includes a 2.70 kWp total solar array composed of six Trina Vertex S+ 450W Dual Glass Full Black N-Type Mono panels, paired with a single Fox ESS F Series (G3) 3kW Single Phase Dual MPPT String Inverter. The system contains no battery storage as it is tailored purely for daytime self-consumption and grid export, and the entire array is fixed via a Renusol pitched roof mounting system engineered for concrete tile roofs.
Performance & Energy Modelling
Based on detailed meteorological modelling for Postcode Zone 3, featuring a West orientation at an 88° azimuth, a 24° pitch, and a shade factor of 1.00, the installation is projected to generate 2,252 kWh of clean electricity annually. Out of the property’s estimated annual electricity usage of 3,100 kWh, the solar PV system is modeled to directly provide 819 kWh towards household consumption, while exporting 1,433 kWh of clean power back to the national grid.
Financial Benefits
The total system investment stands at £3,500.00, benefiting from a 0% VAT rate on energy-saving materials. Over a projected 25-year lifespan, the system demonstrates impressive financial value, delivering an estimated first-year total benefit of £420. This includes a reduction in annual electricity import bills from £775 down to £570 in Year 1, yielding £205 in direct bill savings.
Exporting 1,433 kWh at 15.00p per kWh through the Smart Export Guarantee provides an additional £215 per year in revenue, bringing the net effective first-year energy cost down to £355. Overall, the system offers an attractive estimated investment payback period of nine years, alongside projected discounted cumulative benefits reaching £9,200 over 25 years.
Environmental Impact
Beyond financial returns, the solar PV system delivers substantial environmental advantages by supplying clean, zero-carbon power to the property and feeding excess electricity into the local grid. By supplying 26% of the property’s annual electricity needs, the installation achieves an annual CO₂ reduction of 466 kg.
This environmental benefit is equivalent to taking a standard diesel car journey of 1,665 miles off the road or the annual CO₂ absorption of 21 trees.
The Outcome
The proposed 2.7 kW solar PV installation for 43 Brunel Road highlights how residential properties can effectively generate renewable energy, cut household bills, and make a meaningful environmental impact. Designed and supported by Orange Solar Systems Ltd, this system provides a highly reliable, cost-effective solution with strong long-term value.
