Installing solar panels on commercial buildings often requires careful consideration of the structure, materials and long-term performance of the system. For Bus Shelter Weymouth, a homeless re-housing shelter made from modular shipping containers, the challenge was to install a high-output solar array without compromising the integrity of the building.
Our team at Adept Renewables designed a bespoke, penetration-free solar solution, delivering a 36kW commercial solar installation using innovative mounting methods that protected the structure while maximising renewable energy generation.
The Challenge: Installing Solar Panels Without Structural Penetration
The Bus Shelter Weymouth project presented a unique engineering challenge. Because the building was constructed from modular shipping containers, traditional solar mounting methods that require drilling or fixing directly into the structure were not suitable.
Any penetrations could have affected the containers’:
- Structural integrity
- Insulation performance
- Watertight seals
The installation team needed to develop a secure and reliable mounting solution that could support a large commercial solar array while maintaining the original condition of the building.
The Solution: A Bespoke Penetration-Free Solar Mounting System
To overcome these challenges, our team designed a custom-built Unistrut framework that allowed the solar panels to be installed securely without penetrating the container structure.
The bespoke system was clamped and ballasted securely onto the container frames, creating a strong foundation for the solar array while preserving the integrity of the accommodation below.
This approach provided a practical solution that combined structural protection with the performance requirements of a commercial-scale solar system.
Maximising Solar Generation with High-Efficiency Panels
To achieve the required 36kW capacity while keeping the system efficient and streamlined, the project used Astronergy 585W high-efficiency solar panels.
Using higher wattage modules meant fewer panels were required to reach the desired output, helping to simplify installation and reduce the amount of supporting infrastructure needed.
The completed system included:
- Solar panels: Astronergy 585W high-efficiency modules
- Inverter: Fox commercial inverter
- Mounting system: Bespoke Unistrut penetration-free framework
The Results: A Successful Commercial Solar Installation
The completed installation provided Bus Shelter Weymouth with a high-performing renewable energy system designed around the unique requirements of the site.
By combining specialist engineering with carefully selected solar technology, the team at Adept Renewables delivered a commercial solar solution that:
- Achieved a 36kW system capacity
- Avoided structural alterations to the modular building
- Provided a robust and long-lasting mounting solution
- Supported the organisation’s move towards renewable energy
Supporting Businesses with Bespoke Solar Solutions
Every commercial property presents different challenges when installing solar panels. Whether it involves unusual building materials, structural considerations or complex installation requirements, Adept Renewables provides tailored solar solutions designed around each client’s needs.
From initial design through to installation, our team works to deliver reliable renewable energy systems that maximise performance while protecting the buildings they serve.
Speak to Adept Renewables’ commercial solar experts to get a tailored quote for your site.
