Aldham Village Hall, Essex

Client: Aldham Village Hall

Project Scope: 10kW Solar PV Array & 11.5kWh Battery Storage

Funding: Grant Funded

Key Features: 24 High-Efficiency Panels, Fox ESS Battery, SEG Integration

Overview

Village halls are the heart of our rural communities, but rising utility costs often put a strain on their operating budgets. We were selected as the preferred partner for Aldham Village Hall to deliver a comprehensive energy solution. By combining solar generation with advanced battery storage, we have enabled the hall to achieve near-total energy independence.

The Challenge

The objective was to create a system that could not only power the hall during busy daytime events but also store energy for evening meetings and community clubs. As this was a grant-funded project, it was vital to demonstrate maximum value for money, high-tier hardware reliability, and a clear path to long-term financial sustainability for the village hall committee.

Our Solution

High-Yield Solar Array: We installed 24 solar panels, creating a 10kW system designed to capture maximum sunlight. This array was sized to "eclipse" the hall's standard consumption, ensuring a surplus of green energy even on overcast days.

Advanced Energy Storage: To ensure the hall benefits from solar power after the sun goes down, we integrated an 11.5kWh Fox battery storage system. This allows the building to store excess daytime generation for use during evening events, drastically reducing reliance on the grid.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): We configured the system to work with the Smart Export Guarantee. Any energy not used or stored is exported back to the grid, turning the village hall into a mini power station and providing a steady stream of income for the community.

Seamless Implementation: As the preferred partner, we managed the process from technical design to final commissioning, ensuring the installation was sympathetic to the building’s structure and community use.

The Result

Aldham Village Hall is now a model of community sustainability. The combination of the 10kW array and the 11.5kWh Fox battery means the hall’s energy generation now significantly exceeds its usage.

Lower Operating Costs: Grant funding combined with reduced bills means more money stays within the community.

Revenue Generation: Income from exported energy via the SEG.

Future-Proofed: A robust, clean energy source that will serve the village for decades to come.

"By pairing solar with smart storage, we've helped Aldham Village Hall transition from an energy consumer to an energy producer, securing the hall’s future for the next generation."

Is your community building or village hall looking to reduce overheads? We specialise in grant-funded projects and community energy transitions.