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FerrySpeed, a leading freight service between the UK mainland and the Channel Islands, has taken a big step towards sustainability by installing a rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system on its newly built sorting facility at La Collette in Jersey. The system, which consists of 698 x Trina Solar Panels totalling 280kWp is the largest privately owned renewable energy installation in the Channel Islands, narrowly passing the 2019 installation on Guernsey Post headquarters. The system is a unique hybrid, for which 60kWp is a traditional connection to the buildings electrical system to generate savings through the direct offset on the purchase of electricity. The remaining 220kWp of solar is the first of its kind in Jersey where 100% of solar electricity generation is sold to Jersey Electricity, the Island’s energy partner. Jersey Electricity has facilitated a dedicated electrical service to the export of solar power.

Nick Green, the Group Executive Director of Ferryspeed, said that the company was keen to deploy renewable technology and to demonstrate commitment of green solutions to its large client base. “We are not just focused on the numbers, we are also focused on the bigger picture and for us, this is a BIG win!” he said. “We have to show evidence of the supply chain and eco margins. This is a huge, long-term investment for Ferryspeed and we do the walking, not just the talking. We are so happy with the solar installation and strongly recommend SunWorks to any businesses considering going green”.

The Solar installation was designed, installed and commissioned by SunWorks, a local pioneer solar company that specialises in commercial and residential projects.

Mark Brandon, Managing Director of SunWorks, said “I’m proud of the installation and the hard work of our team in the face of unprecedented challenges with sourcing materials and then adverse weather throughout the installation.” Mark also commented on the unique nature of the solar installation “Ferryspeed have made a bold first move and this marks an important first step by opening the conversation for further private commercial energy generators across the Channel Islands. There have been lessons learned by all stakeholders and it’s going to be great to see how solar technology can play an increasing role over the coming years.”

The solar power from the smaller 60kWp array connected to the building’s electrical infrastructure will contribute to charging of the electric vehicles, as well as the wider operations of the building. Solar power of this nature will yield long term savings on the purchase of electricity which in turn will also benefit the environment.

Jersey Electricity’s Director of Commercial Services Peter Cadiou added, ‘We are pleased to partner with Ferryspeed, supported by SunWorks, on this project. JE is committed to building the Island’s energy sovereignty and ensuring that all Islanders can benefit from locally-generated renewable energy, and this partnership helps to achieve both of these objectives.’

When asked about what Ferryspeed’s intentions with the solar, Nick added that “We are early adopters and innovators, to make full use of the solar we have now considered installing smart adapters for the EV chargers, as well as installing solar on the Ferryspeed UK properties. We have paved the way and hope for many other local businesses to follow suit and join us in saving thousands and saving the planet”, he said.