We recently completed a solar PV installation at a modern student accommodation building in Dublin, helping the property owner reduce electricity costs while improving the sustainability performance of the building.
The project involved installing a rooftop solar system designed to generate clean electricity for the building’s shared services, including lighting, communal areas, and other daytime electrical loads.
The project involved installing a rooftop solar system designed to generate clean electricity for the building’s shared services, including lighting, communal areas, and other daytime electrical loads.
To give a better perspective on the installation, we’ve included drone footage from the project, showing the scale of the rooftop system and how the panels integrate with the building.
Supporting Sustainable Student Living
Student accommodation buildings typically operate with high and consistent electricity demand, making them well suited to solar energy systems.
Electricity is required throughout the day for:
- Lighting in common areas
- Lifts and building services
- Heating and ventilation systems
- Laundry and shared facilities
- Office and reception areas
By generating electricity on-site, solar panels help reduce the building’s reliance on grid electricity and contribute to lower operating costs over time.
Rooftop Solar Designed for Maximum Output
The solar PV system was installed on the building’s rooftop using high-efficiency panels designed to maximise energy generation throughout the year.
The design considered several factors including:
- Available roof space
- Panel orientation and shading
- Building electricity demand profile
- Safe installation access
Rooftop solar installations like this make effective use of otherwise unused roof space while producing renewable electricity directly where it is needed.
The system installed was 32kW of solar and 40kW of Sigenergy battery storage and a Gateway for business continuity in event of a power issue in the building.
Benefits for the Property Owner
Installing solar on a large residential building such as student accommodation provides several long-term advantages:
Reduced Operating Costs
Improved Sustainability Credentials
Long-Term Energy Stability
Attractive for Tenants and Investors
Installation Process
The installation was carefully planned to ensure the work was carried out safely and efficiently with minimal disruption to building operations.
Key stages included:
- Detailed site survey and system design
- Structural and electrical assessments
- Installation of mounting systems and panels
- Electrical connection and system commissioning
- Monitoring setup and performance verification
Drone footage from the project provides a unique view of the completed installation and the scale of the system.
Growing Demand for Solar in Residential Developments
More property owners are exploring solar installations for apartment and student accommodation buildings as energy costs continue to rise.
These buildings often have:
- Large roof areas
- Consistent electricity demand
- Long-term ownership horizons
This makes solar energy a strong investment both financially and environmentally.
Thinking About Solar for Your Building?
If you manage or own a commercial or residential property and are interested in installing solar panels, our team can assess your building and provide a tailored proposal.
Solar energy can help reduce operating costs, improve sustainability, and future-proof your property against rising energy prices.