A Milton Keynes hospice is benefitting from solar-generated electricity thanks to UK solar companies, Conergy UK, SMA Solar UK and FSG Energy.

Willen Hospice is supported solely by voluntary donations, as a result, Conergy wanted to donate a solar PV system that will allow the hospice to benefit over the long-term as well as in the near future.

Robert Goss, Managing Director Conergy UK, explained: “Willen Hospice is well-regarded for the services it provides to their patients and families, so we really wanted to contribute to their success.”

Conergy, whose UK office is based locally in Milton Keynes, designed the system and donated the solar panels and mounting frame needed to attach the panels to the Hospice’s roof. Goss added: “The solar panels will cover some of the Hospice’s daytime energy needs, and provide twenty years of new revenues from the government’s feed in tariffs.”

Conergy also used its experience to help the charity gain planning permission. The installation needed to be kept out of sight, since part of the Hospice is Grade II listed and lies within a conservation area.

Milton Keynes-based SMA Solar UK helped the project by donating an inverter and monitoring equipment, while local solar installers, FSG Energy, fitted the 4kW system.

Jan Van Laethem, Managing Director of SMA Solar UK commented: “I am proud that SMA Solar UK is committed to supporting local Milton Keynes charity, Willen Hospice, a cause that works so hard to improve the lives of its patients. We are thrilled that two global leaders in solar technology have teamed up with a local photovoltaic installer to make a significant difference to the Hospice and SMA Solar UK are delighted to be part of it.”

Barry Thurston, Sales Manager of FSG Energy added: “As a local company, we are well aware of the important work and support offered by the Hospice and their staff. When Conergy approached us to be a part of this project we didn’t hesitate in saying yes. We’re proud to be involved and hope the system brings them both generous savings and earnings from the feed in tariff. This is all for a great cause.”

The 4kWp solar array is expected to produce around 3,700kWh of clean electricity a year, mitigating the emission of 40 tonnes of CO2 over the next 20 years. Paul Hinson, Chief Executive of Willen Hospice concluded: “We are thrilled with the new solar roof which has been so generously donated by Conergy, SMA and FSG Energy.  It will provide us with a reduced cost, sustainable energy source, allowing our patients, loved ones and Willen Hospice staff to benefit from the ongoing source of revenue”.

Below is a video of Willen Hospice’s solar array being installed:

 

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