Our clients progress through a four-stage process and with each stage there is an increase in the level of detail and certainty that the investment is viable. The first three stages can be considered as ‘Front End Engineering & Design (FEED)’, with stage four being the ‘Implementation’ stage.
Net Zero Implementation
Net Zero Implementation
Why – To solve our client’s energy related problems by delivering tangible assets that reduce their business impact on the world around them whilst simultaneously increasing their energy resilience.
Learn MoreHow – By using a structured staged process that identifies, quantifies, defines, and implements the best solution for each client.
What – On a day-to-day basis we design, build, operate, and maintain renewable energy assets that integrate the latest and best technology and knowledge from internal and external resources.
The NZI Process
For sites that only have opportunities for a single roof mounted solar PV system (under 1 MW) we would typically skip straight to S4 as the level of detail in stages 1-3 aren’t required and can be completed for free at the start of stage 4.
Technologies
Solar PV (roof mounted, ground mount, or carport), battery storage, and wind turbines (horizontal and vertical axis) form the basis of the primary technologies that would be developed in-house. By engaging with our partners to help deliver further solutions other technologies such as green hydrogen, biomass, heat pumps, LED lighting, and boiler replacements can be explored.
Stage One – Scope & Options
Cost: Free of Charge
Output: Multiple Renewable Options
During stage one, the in-house net-zero implementation team will assess all possible opportunities for on-site renewable energy generation. Each option will be explored from a high-level, with key metrics displayed in the final S1 client report. By exploring all opportunities, it helps to assess the viability of the site potential and provide a more informed decision of which technologies should progress to stage two. In addition to evaluating the possible options, initial assessments are done to uncover any potential hazards that might derail a project, such as flood zones or buried services.
Stage Two – Technical Analysis
Cost: Chargeable
Output: Recommended Technical Solution
The most viable solutions from stage one are progressed to stage two for a more detailed analysis. The system designs are refined and modelled using specific design software, to quantify the expected performance of the solution. The annual carbon savings are calculated, and the system generation is analysed vs the site consumption. If there is sufficient excess generation, the impact of battery storage is assessed. Stemming from the key performance metrics and the calculated indicative system costs, the financial benefits, including annual returns and payback periods, are quantified. To further assess the project viability advice is also sought with the grid (DNO) and local planning authority.
Stage Three – Business Case Development
Cost: Chargeable
Output: Ready to Implement Solution
The certainty that the investment and project is viable is cemented in stage three. Formal grid and planning applications are prepared and submitted by the in-house team, as well as conducting a comprehensive tender process for all works required to take the project from concept to implementation. The NZI team will assess the quotations for the required work and build out a full project budget, cashflow, and schedule. The finalised detailed system design is prepared by the in-house design team following feedback from the detailed site surveys, local planning authority, and the grid, with the final solution being presented to the client.
Stage Four – Implementation
Cost: Chargeable
Output: Installed and Commissioned Solution
Prior to the system being implemented, the final planning permission is submitted, along with any concluding conversations with the grid. The team will do a final tender review and appoint qualified sub-contractors to initiate the start of the build. The whole installation will be project managed internally and under CDM 2015 regulations. Following the successful installation and commissioning of the system there will be handover of the renewable energy asset. This will include fully documented system drawings and O&M manuals, as well as on-site training of the system.
