Having considered adding solar panels to Photon Surgical System’s head office for the last few years, we decided to take the plunge this year. We wanted to be more considerate of the environment, and the prices are now probably as low as they are likely to get.

 

The process started with several meetings in July. We invited various PV solar suppliers to survey the premises and quote. Alongside this process, we took advice from a local independent energy advisor.

 

A decision was made to oversize the solar array at 14.25 kWp to allow for futureproofing, and to achieve this, we needed 38 panels roof mounted.

 

Our chosen supplier carried out the installation over two days, and the system was operational by the 1st of October.

 

It is still early days to know how well the panels are performing, as we need to see a full 12 months of data before drawing any firm conclusions. The fact that energy prices are now on the up and with more price increases due next year, it looks like we have got the timing about right. 

 

In future, we expect to add EV charging points as staff get electric vehicles, and Photon is likely to start using service and delivery vans that rely on battery technology. Still, at the moment, we feel the battery technology needs to improve, and the capital cost of an electric vehicle needs to come down.

 

As battery storage becomes better and more viable, we will consider adding this. The PV installer is monitoring the solar panel data to see if and when that would be worth adding.

 

COP 26 in Glasgow highlighted the urgent need for us all to do more, and we are proud that Photon Surgical Systems have started their green journey and contributed in a small way to help reduce climate change.

 

David Harvey, Veterinary Advisor