67-Panel Commercial Solar PV System

Client: Greensward Cafe

Project Scope: 67-Panel Commercial Solar PV System

System Size: 28kWp with 25kW 3-Phase Inverter

Location: Clacton-on-Sea, Essex

Overview

The Greensward Cafe is a cornerstone of the Clacton-on-Sea community, enjoying a prime seafront location. To combat rising energy costs and align with the global move toward Net Zero, the cafe owners commissioned us to design and install a high-capacity commercial solar solution. By leveraging their unshaded roof space and the unique "glare" from the sea, we transformed the cafe into a flagship for "green" hospitality.

The Challenge

As a bustling seaside business, the cafes energy demands are highest during the day—powering commercial kitchen equipment, espresso machines, and lighting. The challenge was to install a significant 67-panel array on a commercial roof without interrupting daily service, ensuring the system was optimised for the specific coastal conditions of the site.

Our Solution

High-Efficiency Hardware: We installed 67 solar PV panels, each capable of generating 420W. To manage this power, we integrated a 3-phase 25kW Solis inverter, providing a robust and reliable energy supply to meet the cafe’s heavy electrical loads.

Smart Energy Management: The system was designed to align with the cafe’s operating hours (9:00 am – 3:30 pm), ensuring that nearly all energy produced is used directly on-site during peak times.

Grid Export Integration: For times when the cafe is closed, we set up the system to export surplus green energy back to the grid at a competitive rate, providing an additional revenue stream for the client and green power for the local community.

The Result

The Greensward Café is now powered by the sun. This installation has not only significantly reduced their operational overheads—allowing them to maintain competitive pricing for customers—but has also drastically lowered their carbon footprint.

67 Panels generating clean, renewable electricity.

Carbon Reduction: Helping the business contribute to the UK’s Net Zero targets.

Energy Independence: Reduced reliance on volatile grid pricing.

"Expert Energy Group installed our fantastic 67 solar panels Solis system at the Greensward Cafe. They are a professional team, knowledgeable about commercial PV systems, and kept me updated throughout the entire process."

— Mark Broad, Owner, Greensward Cafe