Chemist4u – Solar PV

PROJECT OVERVIEW

IDES Electrical Services were appointed to design and install a large-scale Solar PV system at Chemist4U’s head office and distribution facility in Skelmersdale. The project formed part of the company’s commitment to reducing operational energy costs, improving sustainability performance and supporting long-term business growth through the generation of renewable energy on-site.

Installed on the warehouse roof of the facility, the system was designed to maximise on-site energy generation while supporting the operational demands of one of the UK’s leading online pharmacy providers.

THE CHALLENGE

The project involved the installation of a substantial Solar PV system on a live operational distribution facility, requiring careful planning and coordination to ensure works could be completed safely and efficiently without disrupting day-to-day business operations.

The design needed to maximise energy generation while accommodating the building’s roof layout and electrical infrastructure. In addition, the project required coordination of DNO approvals and structural roof assessments to ensure the installation met all technical and regulatory requirements.

As a large-scale commercial installation, the project required a carefully engineered solution capable of delivering meaningful reductions in energy costs and carbon emissions while providing a strong long-term return on investment.

OUR SOLUTION

IDES provided a complete turnkey Solar PV solution, managing the project from initial site assessment and system design through to installation, testing and commissioning.

The system comprised 322 solar panels with a total installed capacity of 140kWp, supported by a Solis 100kW inverter and a Solis 40kW inverter. The installation was designed to maximise renewable energy generation and support the site’s ongoing operational energy requirements.

Throughout the project, IDES managed the DNO approval process and coordinated structural roof surveys, ensuring the installation was delivered efficiently and in compliance with all relevant requirements.

SERVICES DELIVERED

• Complimentary Site Assessment & Proposal
• Solar PV System Design
• DNO Applications & Approvals
• Structural Roof Survey Coordination
• Full Solar PV Installation
• Inverter Installation & Commissioning
• Testing & Commissioning
• Client Handover Documentation
• Aftercare Support Package

PROJECT OUTCOME

The project was successfully completed, providing Chemist4U with a substantial source of renewable energy generation and significantly reducing reliance on grid-supplied electricity.

The completed 140kWp Solar PV installation is expected to generate approximately 110,362kWh of renewable electricity annually, delivering estimated annual electricity savings of £22,663. The system is projected to achieve a payback period of approximately 4.7 years while reducing carbon emissions by around 28 tonnes of CO₂ each year.

The project demonstrates IDES’ capability to deliver large-scale commercial Solar PV installations within live operational environments, combining technical expertise, regulatory coordination and high-quality installation standards to provide long-term value for clients.

KEY STATISTICS

• 322 Solar Panels Installed
• Solis 100kW & Solis 40kW Inverters
• 110,362kWh Estimated Annual Generation
• Approx. £22,663 Annual Electricity Savings
• 4.7 Year Estimated Payback Period
• 28 Tonnes of CO₂ Avoided Annually
• DNO Approval Process Managed by IDES
• Structural Roof Surveys Coordinated by IDES

PROJECT DETAILS

Sector: Solar PV
Location: Skelmersdale
Programme Duration: 4 weeks