Ullesthorpe Village Hall in Leicestershire has recently invested in a renewable energy upgrade through the installation of a 5.64 kWp solar PV system paired with a 9.7 kW battery storage solution.
Delivered by Eco UK Group, the project was designed to reduce energy costs, increase energy independence, and support the long-term sustainability goals of the community facility.
The combined PV and battery system allows the hall to capture, store, and utilise clean energy more efficiently throughout the day and evening.
Client Background
Ullesthorpe Village Hall is an important hub for local events, community groups, and social activities. With rising energy bills placing pressure on community facilities, the hall’s management committee sought a reliable, cost-saving renewable energy solution that also aligned with the village’s environmental ambitions. The goal was to reduce dependence on grid electricity while improving long-term operational resilience.
System Design and Components
The chosen solution combines high-efficiency panels with smart energy storage and advanced monitoring technology.
- 12 AIKO 470W Bifacial PV Modules
Delivering strong, efficient power generation with a compact array size suited to the hall’s flat roof. - Van Der Valk Mounting System
A robust flat-roof solution offering long-term resistance to weather exposure and structural flexibility. - SolarEdge SE5K-RWB48 Home Hub Inverter
A 5kW high-efficiency inverter providing module-level optimisation and improved system performance. - Two SolarEdge Home Batteries (4.85 kW each)
Creating a combined 9.7 kW storage capacity, allowing surplus daytime energy to be stored and used during evenings and peak-tariff periods.
SolarEdge Monitoring Platform
Integrated to provide clear, real-time oversight of energy production, consumption and storage performance.
Implementation and Challenges
The installation was completed with minimal disruption, making use of spare capacity within the existing electrical infrastructure. DC cabling was routed externally along the roof using galvanised cable trays, ensuring a secure and weatherproof pathway before entering the building through a sealed entry point. The flat-roof nature of the hall required a carefully selected mounting system, making the Van Der Valk solution the ideal fit. Eco UK Group ensured full safety compliance and delivered a tidy, unobtrusive installation suited to a frequently used community facility.
Results and Impact
- Estimated CO₂ savings:53 kg per year
- Significant reductions in annual electricity costs through on-site generation and battery-stored energy
- Increased resilience during peak-price periods and evening events due to stored solar energy
Together, these outcomes provide long-term financial relief and a meaningful contribution to the village’s sustainability efforts.
Conclusion
The 5.64 kWp solar PV system with 9.7 kW battery storage at Ullesthorpe Village Hall demonstrates how even smaller community buildings can benefit from modern renewable energy solutions. By combining high-performance PV modules with smart battery technology, Eco UK Group has delivered a system that maximises energy efficiency, reduces running costs, and supports local environmental goals.
This project stands as a strong example of how community spaces can adopt clean energy in a practical and financially sustainable way.
