At B9 Energy, we are committed to providing high-quality renewable energy solutions to help businesses reduce their carbon footprint and energy costs. Our recent project with Firmus Energy, involving the installation of two 15kW solar PV systems across their headquarters at 5 Fergusons Way, Antrim, and an adjacent facility, showcases this commitment. By working closely with Firmus Energy, we implemented high-performance solar systems that align with their sustainability goals. This collaboration highlights our ability to deliver reliable, scalable solar solutions that support corporate environmental leadership.

As one of Northern Ireland’s leading energy providers, Firmus Energy is deeply committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Facing increasing energy demands at both their headquarters and an adjacent facility, they turned to B9 Energy for a solar energy solution to reduce their operational costs and carbon footprint. By installing solar PV systems at both buildings, Firmus aimed to achieve long-term energy independence while setting an example for sustainability in the business community.

Solution:

After a detailed assessment of the energy needs and physical layout of both buildings, B9 Energy recommended identical 15kW solar PV systems for each facility. The solution included:

• 35 all-black 435W Jinko solar panels per building: These were selected for their high efficiency and sleek design, which complements the architecture of both buildings while maximising energy output.
• 10kW Fronius inverters: Chosen for their reliability and flexibility, the inverters can handle up to 1.5 times oversizing. This allows them to manage the 15kW solar arrays efficiently, ensuring optimal energy generation during peak sunlight hours without the need for larger, more expensive inverters.

The installation was carried out across both buildings over a total of four weeks. Our team carefully positioned the solar panels on the roofs of both facilities to optimise sunlight exposure and maximise energy production. Throughout the process, we adhered to strict safety protocols to ensure a smooth, incident-free installation, with minimal disruption to Firmus Energy’s daily operations. The systems were integrated with Fronius inverters for seamless energy management and monitoring, allowing Firmus to track and manage their energy production in real-time through the Fronius Solar.web platform.

Results:

The installation of these solar PV systems across both buildings has provided Firmus Energy with several key benefits:

Environmental Impact: Together, the two 15kW systems are estimated to produce 22,564 kWh of clean energy annually, significantly reducing Firmus Energy’s reliance on non-renewable energy sources. This results in a combined CO2 reduction of approximately 5.8 tonnes per year, furthering Firmus’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

• Cost Savings: Both solar systems have already started to reduce energy costs at Firmus Energy’s headquarters and adjacent facility. These savings can be reinvested into other core operations or future sustainability initiatives, offering long-term financial benefits alongside environmental gains.
• Operational Efficiency: The Fronius 10kW inverters, paired with the high-efficiency Jinko panels, ensure that both systems operate at peak efficiency, even during times of suboptimal weather. The inverters’ oversizing capability maximises energy yield, ensuring both buildings maintain optimal performance.
• Community Leadership: By adopting solar energy across both facilities, Firmus Energy reinforces its role as a sustainability leader within the business community. Their dual solar installations set a strong example for local businesses and communities to follow, contributing to Northern Ireland’s broader environmental ambitions.

Conclusion:

B9 Energy is proud to have partnered with Firmus Energy in their pursuit of sustainability across their headquarters and adjacent facility. The successful installation of two 15kW solar PV systems marks a significant milestone in their efforts to reduce carbon emissions and energy costs. By utilising state-of-the-art solar technology, including Jinko panels and Fronius inverters, we have delivered a robust energy solution that will continue to provide environmental and financial benefits for years to come.

This project showcases B9 Energy’s ability to deliver custom, scalable solar solutions, helping our clients achieve their sustainability goals while leading the renewable energy transition in Northern Ireland.