1st Copthorne Scouts partnered with Solar Voltaics to deliver a high-quality community solar installation in West Sussex, providing clean, renewable energy for their Scout Hut in Crawley. The building is used throughout the week by Scouts, Beavers, and Brownies groups and is also hired out to local community organisations, creating a varied and often unpredictable energy demand profile.
This community solar West Sussex project was designed to reduce electricity costs, improve long-term sustainability, and generate export income to support the ongoing running of the group.
Community Solar Installation in Crawley
As a busy community building, the Scout Hut plays an important role in supporting young people and local groups in Crawley. With rising energy costs and increasing pressure on community funding, the organisation wanted to invest in community solar in West Sussex to reduce reliance on grid electricity and protect against future price increases.
By installing community solar in Crawley, 1st Copthorne Scouts has taken a proactive step towards energy resilience while significantly reducing its environmental impact.
The Goal of the community solar project
The primary objectives of this community solar West Sussex installation were to:
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Reduce ongoing electricity costs
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Lower reliance on grid-supplied energy
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Generate income through exported solar energy
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Improve long-term sustainability for the organisation
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Reduce carbon emissions associated with building use
Due to the varied use of the building, the system was designed to maximise generation and export during quieter periods while still supporting on-site demand when activities are taking place.
Key Facts – Community Solar West Sussex
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18 kWp solar PV system
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36 × Trina 500W solar panels
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Fox ESS 15 kW 3-phase hybrid inverter with 10.36 kWh battery storage
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CO₂ savings: 6,169 kg per year
Performance Metrics – Community Solar in Crawley
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Annual yield: 904.92 kWh/kWp
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Performance ratio: 86.31%
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Shading losses: 2.2%
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Annual PV energy (AC, with battery): 16,266 kWh
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Direct on-site use: 1 kWh per year
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Grid export: 16,266 kWh per year
Technical Specification
Solar Panels
36 × Trina 500W high-efficiency solar panels
Inverter System
Fox ESS 15 kW 3-phase hybrid inverter
Battery Storage
Fox ESS 10.36 kWh lithium battery system
Mounting System
Clenergy PV-ezRack Pro mounting system
Scope of Works – Community Solar West Sussex
Solar Voltaics provided a complete turnkey solution for this community solar installation in West Sussex, including:
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Detailed site survey and feasibility assessment
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Full solar PV and electrical system design
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Structural mounting design for the existing roof
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Supply and installation of all solar and battery equipment
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Integration of hybrid inverter and battery storage system
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Testing, commissioning, and system optimisation
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Monitoring setup and full handover documentation
Results – Community Solar West Sussex in Action
The completed community solar West Sussex system for 1st Copthorne Scouts now delivers:
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Over 6 tonnes of CO₂ savings per year
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Reduced electricity costs for the organisation
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Increased long-term energy sustainability
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Export income to support community activities
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A significantly lower environmental impact
This project demonstrates how community solar in West Sussex can provide real financial and environmental benefits for local organisations, helping them remain viable and sustainable for years to come.
Why Choose Solar Voltaics for Community Solar in West Sussex?
Solar Voltaics specialises in community solar installations across West Sussex and the South East, designing and installing bespoke renewable energy systems for scout huts, village halls, community centres, and local organisations.
If you are considering community solar in West Sussex or Crawley, our team can provide a full feasibility study and tailored system design.
