Colchester Solar Panel Installation with Hanchu Gateway


Solar installation on a Colchester property

Project Overview

This recent installation in Colchester, Essex featured a high performance 6.30kWp solar PV system combined with advanced battery storage and full home backup capability. The homeowner wanted to maximise self-sufficiency, reduce rising energy costs and future proof their property with a sleek, premium solar installation.

The property’s multiple orientation roof presented a more complex design challenge, requiring careful system planning to optimise generation throughout the day. Our team designed a bespoke solution to ensure maximum performance across all roof aspects while maintaining a clean and visually appealing finish.

System Specification

  • System Size: 6.30kWp
  • Solar Panels: 14x Aiko N-Type ABC Neostar 450W panels
  • Battery Storage: 9.4kWh Hanchu battery system
  • Backup System: Hanchu Gateway for full home backup
  • Mounting System: premium double powder coated black aluminium mounting kit
  • Protection: black heavy galvanised bird mesh

The Installation

For this project, the homeowner selected the highly efficient Aiko N-Type ABC Neostar panels, known for their excellent low light performance, sleek all black appearance and industry leading efficiency. These premium panels were ideal for maximising generation across the property’s varied roof orientations.

To complement the solar array, we installed a 9.4kWh Hanchu battery system, allowing the homeowner to store surplus energy generated during the day for use during the evening and overnight. The addition of the Hanchu Gateway also provides full home backup functionality, ensuring the property can continue operating during power outages.

Due to multiple roof orientations, our design team carefully balanced panel placement to optimise generation throughout the day rather than concentrating production into a single peak period. This approach helps improve battery charging performance and increases overall self-consumption.

To complete the installation, we used a double power coated black aluminium mounting kit alongside black bird protection mesh, creating a clean, modern aesthetic while protecting the system from nesting birds and debris buildup.

Predicted Performance and Savings

This system is expected to deliver substantial long term savings and energy independence for the homeowners.

Predicted Results

  • Year 1 Predicted Savings: £1,499
  • Estimated Payback Period: 7 years
  • Predicted Savings Over 30 Years: £112,463

With battery storage and full backup capability, the homeowner can significantly reduce reliance on the grid while benefiting from greater energy security and protection against future electricity price rises.

Why This System Works So Well

This installation demonstrates how a carefully designed solar and battery system can perform exceptionally well even on more complex roof layouts. By combining premium Aiko solar technology with intelligent Hanchu battery storage and backup integration, the homeowner now benefits from:

  • Lower electricity bills
  • Increased energy independence
  • Backup protection during outages
  • Improved self-consumption of solar energy
  • A premium all black aesthetic finish
  • Long term financial savings

At SolarTherm UK, every system is designed around the individual property and customer requirements, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency and future proofing for years to come.

Find out how much you could save with our Solar Calculator