Reducing energy costs and carbon emissions at a last-mile logistics development

Mileway Photovoltaic Scheme

The first phase of West Hallam Industrial Estate delivers nine warehouse units from last-mile logistics developer, Mileway, who own or manage over 1,800 properties across 10 countries. Faced with rising energy costs, on-site generation of grid-connected renewable energy helps manage operational costs for Mileway’s tenants and makes the development an attractive base for last mile logistics operators. They reached out to our team to help them implement a one-megawatt-peak ground-mounted solar scheme.

Having identified a sterile part of the development ideal for the solar installation, we undertook modelling a proposed scheme. For the first phase, our role covered site-specific shading analysis to create the optimum array, an hourly output model using site specific climate data, on-site spatial constraints analysis, estimation of carbon savings, and capital cost and revenue analysis to inform ownership commitments.

Drawing on our evidence-based feasibility assessment, we supported Mileway in negotiating grid capacity and connection with Western Power Distribution and undertook the design of the solar scheme. While negotiating and securing the grid connection, we evaluated grid constraints to inform the amount of generated power that can be exported from the site, which in turn influenced the size and design of the scheme. We also provided relevant documents to the grid to demonstrate competency.

For the planning application, we provided relevant details on the technology, environmental benefits, and local environmental impacts. Once planning was secured, our team managed the contractor for Mileway, overseeing quality control and keeping the installation to a timely delivery.

When fully operational, the solar array will allow Mileway to offset an estimated 790 tonnes of carbon dioxide over 25 years.