Commercial Solar PV and Battery Storage Case Study
Project Overview
SolarTherm UK was proud to support Sunfields Methodist Church in Greenwich with the installation of a commercial solar PV and battery storage system, helping the Church reduce its electricity costs while supporting its long term commitment to environmental stewardship. The Church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a hub for a wide range of community groups and local initiatives throughout the week.
With rising energy prices placing increasing pressure on community organisations, the Church wanted a solution that would provide long term financial stability while making better use of its available roof space.
The Solar Solution
Following a detailed site survey and system design, SolarTherm UK installed:
- 28x Amerisolar 410W solar panels
- Solis hybrid inverter
- Voltsmile H1 High Voltage 20.48kWh battery storage system
The system has been carefully designed to maximise daytime solar generation while storing excess electricity for use later in the day. This is particularly beneficial for Churches and community buildings where electricity demand often extends into the evenings for meetings, youth groups, community events and activities.
The addition of battery storage enables the Church to make the most of the electricity it generates, reducing reliance on expensive grid electricity even after the sun has gone down.
Projected Financial Benefits
The installation is expected to deliver significant long term savings.
| Benefit | Estimated Value |
| Year 1 Savings | £2,669 |
| 30 Year Savings | £176,203 |
| Estimated Payback | 7 Years |
After the system has paid for itself, the Church will continue to benefit from decades of reduced electricity bills, allowing more of its income to be invested back into its ministry, facilities and community work.
Supporting the Community Through Renewable Energy
Churches often have large roof areas with excellent solar potential, making them ideal candidates for commercial solar PV installations.
For Sunfields Methodist Church, investing in renewable energy is about more than reducing costs. The installation supports the Church’s ongoing commitment to responsible stewardship, helping reduce its environmental impact while creating a more sustainable future for its congregation and the wider local community.
As the Church building is used throughout the week by numerous community organisations and events, much of the electricity generated can be used directly on-site, increasing the overall value of the installation.
Environmental Impact
Alongside the financial benefits, the system will significantly reduce the Church’s reliance on electricity generated from fossil fuels. By generating clean renewable electricity on-site, Sunfields Methodist Church is lowering its carbon footprint while demonstrating environmental leadership within the local community.
Estimated environmental benefits include:
- Annual CO₂ Reduction: 1.88 tonnes
- Lifetime CO₂ Reduction: 26.94 tonnes
- Equivalent to planting 89 trees per year
Why SolarTherm UK?
Commercial and community buildings each have unique energy requirements. SolarTherm UK designs every system around how a building actually uses electricity, ensuring organisations achieve the greatest possible return on investment.
From the initial survey and system design through to installation, commissioning and ongoing support, our experienced team delivers tailored renewable energy solutions built for long term performance.
Thinking About Solar for Your Church or Community Building?
Whether you manage a Church, village hall, charity, school or other community organisation, SolarTherm UK can design a commercial solar PV system that reduces energy costs and delivers long term savings.
Our experienced in-house team will assess your building, analyse your energy usage and recommend the most effective solar and battery storage solution for your organisation.
