Introduction
Jockey Fields is a development of three two-storey blocks of flats, each with four flats located in Sedgley. The flats are owned by Dudley MBC and leased to tenants. Dudley MBC has worked in partnership with the Lye based Dodd Group to provide a renewable energy scheme to a small group of residents.
What was involved
The project involved the selection of a development to trial the installation of solar photovoltaic panels. Dudley MBC organised a consultation with tenants to gain their views on the proposals. The installation took place in early 2011 and was funded by Dudley MBC.
Jockey Fields was selected as the trial site because the roof orientation and pitch are ideal for the installation of solar photovoltaic panels. The properties are generally occupied during the day meaning the residents can use the electricity generated by the panels and reduce their electricity costs.
Solar Photovoltaic Panels
Solar photovoltaic panels are a reliable technology that converts the light in the suns rays into electricity that is connected to flats electricity supply. Solar photovoltaic panels are most effective when they face south, are pitched at an angle of 300 and not overshadowed by any obstructions.
The application of solar photovoltaic panels generates electricity that can also be exported to the national grid and reduces the carbon emissions from the building. The scheme provides tenants with free electricity during daylight hours that equates to reduction in electricity bills of 12%.
Dudley MBC has registered for a national financial incentive scheme and will receive a payment for every unit of electricity generated by the panels.
Outcomes
Dudley MBC will monitor the effectiveness of the scheme and consider rolling out this model to larger schemes such as sheltered housing schemes meaning more people will benefit from reduced electricity bills.
For further information
Contact Martin Simmonds, Dudley MBC Building Services on martin.simmonds@dudley.gov.uk or tel 01384 817097.
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