Opinion

2014 and 2015 at the BRE National Solar Centre

Steve Pester, BRE, looks ahead to an action-packed year for the organisation in 2015

The NSC had a fascinating and busy year in 2014, taking on 3 new members of staff, plus calling on our Associate network of old friends, in order to meet the demand – highlights include:

–              Inputting to the DECC Solar Strategy

–              Publishing guides on planning for large scale systems and biodiversity on solar farms, as well as more technical documents, such as safe specification of DC isolators

–              Contributing to the forthcoming IET Code of Practice for Solar Installations

–              Working with the Met Office to improve solar yield predictions

–              Building a varied portfolio of consultancy work, ranging from wind loading investigations and fire prevention to assisting councils and social housing organisations with their roll-out of solar projects

–              Providing some free technical support for local businesses in Cornwall

In 2015 we expect to continue the research and publishing activities, but we are also ramping up our consultancy offerings, so as to become more financially independent. For example we will be expanding our project support and due diligence services: feasibility, tender support, assessments of suppliers and technology, design reviews, inspections and independent QC roles.

Alongside this we will be:

–              Assisting DNOs with storage trials, writing guidance, inputting to standards, etc

–              Inputting into government policy

–              Conducting investigations into fires involving PV, and other faults or issues

–              Providing supporting for the roll-out of 1 GW of solar on government estate

–              Doing further work on our outdoor test site (much of the planning has been completed; we are currently seeking the next tranche of capital to take the project forward).

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