Project Overview
Orange Solar Systems Ltd was selected to design, supply, and install a high-efficiency 2.7 kW solar PV system for a residential property located in Totton, Southampton. The homeowner, Peter, sought to reduce household energy bills and cut reliance on grid electricity by investing in high-performance renewable technology.
Our engineering team designed a bespoke solar solution using premium all-black solar panels mounted directly onto the pitched concrete tile roof, optimised to secure maximum energy generation throughout the year.
The Solution and Hardware Integration
To deliver optimal energy yields within the available roof space, Orange Solar Systems installed a total solar capacity of 2.70 kWp. The array consists of 6 Trina Vertex S+ 450W Dual Glass Full Black N-Type monocrystalline panels, which provide high reliability in harsh conditions alongside superior light-trapping capabilities for maximum power output.
The panels are connected to a single Fox ESS F Series (G3) 3kW single-phase string inverter with dual MPPT trackers, delivering exceptional efficiency when converting direct current (DC) into usable alternating current (AC) power. The entire array is securely fixed using the German-engineered Renusol pitched roof mounting system, tailored specifically for concrete tile roof coverings to guarantee long-term structural integrity.
The roof features an ideal South-facing orientation at -6 degrees with a 37-degree pitch. Combined with an unshaded sunpath diagram (Shade Factor 1.00), the installation provides an ideal foundation for solar capture.
System Performance and Environmental Impact
The installed 2.7 kW solar system is projected to generate 2,759 kWh of clean electricity every year against the property’s annual consumption of 3,100 kWh. Detailed minute-by-minute modelling indicates that 874 kWh of generated solar power will be consumed directly within the home each year, with the remaining 1,885 kWh exported back into the local electricity grid.
From a financial perspective, the system delivers estimated first-year electricity bill savings of £219 on self-consumed power, along with £283 earned through Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments, bringing the total estimated first-year financial benefit to £501.
In terms of environmental benefits, the system reduces the property’s carbon emissions by 571 kg of CO2 annually. This carbon offset is equivalent to planting 26 trees per year or avoiding 2,040 miles driven in an average diesel vehicle.
Financial Investment and Returns
The total cost of the complete supply and installation came to £3,500.00 including 0% VAT. Based on predicted energy savings and export revenues, the system carries an estimated payback period of 7 to 8 years, with lifetime cumulative benefits projected to reach over £10,900 across a 25-year operational lifecycle.
