Askeaton Credit Union Embraces a Greener Future with a 60kWp Solar PV Installation
At VEEP Energy, we believe that every solar installation is more than just a renewable energy project. It is an investment in sustainability, energy independence, and long-term financial savings. One of our recent projects at Askeaton Credit Union, Co. Limerick, perfectly demonstrates how organisations can harness the power of solar energy to significantly reduce operating costs while making a positive environmental impact.
This impressive 60kWp rooftop solar PV system was carefully designed, supplied, installed, and commissioned by the VEEP Energy team, providing Askeaton Credit Union with a highly efficient and future-proof renewable energy solution. Installed across three separate roof areas, the system maximises available roof space and solar generation potential, ensuring optimal performance throughout the year.
A Tailored Solar Energy Solution
Askeaton Credit Union required a reliable and cost-effective solution that would help offset rising electricity costs while supporting its commitment to sustainability.
After a comprehensive site assessment and system design process, VEEP Energy delivered a custom-engineered solar PV system capable of generating approximately 54,000kWh of clean electricity annually.
The installation was carried out while the Credit Union remained fully operational, requiring careful planning, strict safety procedures, and minimal disruption to staff and customers throughout the project.
The completed system includes:
- 148 Jolywood Glass-to-Glass Bifacial N-Type 410Wp Monocrystalline Solar Panels
- 74 SolarEdge P900 Power Optimisers with Arc Protection
- 2 SolarEdge Smart 20kW Three-Phase Inverters
- 1 SolarEdge Import/Export Meter
- 1 SolarFox 32-inch Solar Display Screen
- Roof mounting systems and electrical infrastructure
- Full commissioning and certification
The result is a smart, high-performance solar installation that will continue generating clean renewable electricity for decades to come.
Harnessing Advanced Solar Technology
One of the key strengths of this project is the use of industry-leading SolarEdge technology, designed to maximise energy production while providing enhanced safety and monitoring capabilities.
High-Efficiency Solar Panels
The installation features 148 premium Jolywood Glass-to-Glass Bifacial Solar Panels, each rated at 410Wp.
These advanced panels offer several benefits:
Increased Energy Production
Unlike traditional solar panels, bifacial modules can generate electricity from both sides of the panel. In suitable conditions, reflected sunlight can contribute additional power generation, helping improve overall system performance.
Long-Term Durability
The glass-to-glass design provides exceptional resistance against weather exposure, moisture ingress, and environmental degradation. This robust construction contributes to the manufacturer’s impressive 30-year product warranty.
High Performance N-Type Technology
N-Type cell technology offers enhanced efficiency and reduced degradation over time, ensuring the system continues to deliver strong performance year after year.
SolarEdge Power Optimisers
The Askeaton Credit Union system incorporates 74 SolarEdge P900 Power Optimisers, providing module-level optimisation across all 148 solar panels.
Traditional inverter systems can experience reduced output if one panel becomes shaded, dirty, or underperforms. SolarEdge technology eliminates this issue by optimising each panel individually.
Benefits include:
– Increased energy harvesting
– Enhanced system efficiency
– Improved monitoring capabilities
– Reduced impact of shading
– Higher long-term energy yield
– Advanced arc fault protection for greater safety
This technology helps ensure that every panel contributes as much electricity as possible to the overall system.
Smart Inverter Technology
The electricity produced by solar panels is converted into usable power through two SolarEdge 20kW Smart Three-Phase String Inverters.
These advanced inverters provide:
- High conversion efficiency
- Intelligent performance monitoring
- Reliable grid connectivity
- Real-time system management
- Automatic fault detection
- Enhanced safety protection
The inverters form the heart of the solar PV system, ensuring efficient energy conversion and smooth operation throughout the lifetime of the installation.
Real-Time Energy Monitoring
An exciting feature of this project is the inclusion of a 32-inch SolarFox Solar Display Screen, installed in the Credit Union lobby.
The SolarFox display allows staff, members, and visitors to see the direct benefits of the solar installation in real time.
The screen can display:
- Current solar energy production
- Daily, monthly, and annual energy generation
- Carbon emission reductions
- Environmental impact statistics
- Historical performance data
- Financial savings achieved
By making energy generation visible, the SolarFox display helps showcase the Credit Union’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.
Significant Energy and Financial Benefits
Solar PV systems deliver benefits that go far beyond environmental sustainability. For businesses and organisations like Askeaton Credit Union, solar energy represents a smart financial investment that delivers long-term value.
Annual Energy Production
The newly installed solar PV system is expected to generate approximately:
54,000kWh of renewable electricity annually
This clean energy will contribute significantly to the building’s daytime electricity usage, reducing dependence on imported grid electricity.
Reduced Electricity Costs
Based on electricity self-consumption valued at €0.30 per kWh and exported energy valued at €0.20 per kWh, the projected financial benefits are substantial.
Estimated Annual Savings
€14,053 per year
These savings provide immediate benefits to the organisation while helping to insulate against future increases in electricity costs.
Exceptional Return on Investment
One of the most attractive aspects of commercial solar installations is the speed at which they can pay for themselves.
Estimated Payback Period
3.6 Years
After this period, the system continues generating low-cost electricity for decades, significantly improving the overall return on investment.
Long-Term Financial Value
Long-Term Financial ValueOver its anticipated operating life, the system is expected to generate impressive savings.
Estimated Savings Over 25 Years
€353,564
This demonstrates how solar PV is not simply an environmental upgrade but a strategic financial investment that continues delivering value year after year.
A Positive Impact on the Environment
As organisations seek ways to reduce their environmental footprint, solar energy remains one of the most effective solutions available.
The Askeaton Credit Union solar installation is predicted to offset approximately:
21.176 Tonnes of CO₂ Emissions Per Year
Every unit of electricity generated by the system reduces reliance on fossil-fuel-generated power and contributes towards Ireland’s renewable energy goals.
By producing clean energy directly on-site, the Credit Union is actively helping to build a more sustainable future for its members, employees, and the wider community.
Safe, Professional Project Delivery
At VEEP Energy, safety is at the heart of every installation.
Because the Credit Union remained operational throughout the project, extensive planning and risk management procedures were implemented to ensure a safe working environment for both our installation teams and building occupants.
Safety measures included:
- Full PPE for all operatives
- Safety footwear
- Hard hats
- Eye and ear protection
- Protective gloves
- Dust masks
- Fall arrest systems and harnesses where required
- Secure exclusion zones
- Temporary safety barriers and fencing
- Controlled access routes
- Restricted work areas
All work was completed in accordance with industry best practice and applicable health and safety regulations.
Efficient Installation Process
The project involved several carefully coordinated phases.
Site Preparation
Prior to installation, scaffolding and safe access systems were erected to allow secure access to the roof structures.
Material Delivery and Handling
Materials were delivered using flatbed and curtain-sided trucks before being safely unloaded using lifting equipment including teleporter systems and cranes where necessary.
Roof Installation
The installation team fitted the mounting framework before securing all 148 solar panels across the three designated roof areas.
Electrical Works
The SolarEdge inverters, power optimisers, import/export meter and associated electrical infrastructure were installed and fully integrated into the building’s electrical system.
Testing and Commissioning
Once installation was complete, the system underwent rigorous testing and commissioning procedures to ensure optimal performance and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Full Certification and Compliance Included
As part of the VEEP Energy turnkey solution, all project certification and documentation requirements were managed on behalf of the client.
This included:
- Full supply and installation
- RECI Certification
- ESBN NC7 Certification
- SEAI Commissioning Certification
- Grid connection management
- NC7 ESBN application handling
- Planning permission support where applicable
- System commissioning and customer handover
Our comprehensive approach removes the complexity from the process, allowing customers to enjoy a hassle-free transition to solar energy.
Industry-Leading Warranties and Aftercare
A solar installation is a long-term investment, and VEEP Energy backs every project with strong warranty protection and ongoing support.
The Askeaton Credit Union installation benefits from:
Equipment Warranties
- 30-Year Warranty on Jolywood Solar Panels
- 25-Year Warranty on SolarEdge Power Optimisers
- 12-Year Warranty on SolarEdge Smart Inverters
VEEP Energy Support
– 5-Year Labour Warranty
– 2-Year Comprehensive Operation & Maintenance Warranty
– Optional 5-Year Extended O&M Contract Available After Year Two
This combination of premium equipment and expert support provides complete peace of mind for years to come.
Why Choose VEEP Energy?
At VEEP Energy, we specialise in delivering intelligent solar solutions that help our customers reduce energy costs, improve sustainability, and future-proof their properties.
From initial consultation and system design through to installation, certification, commissioning, monitoring, and ongoing maintenance, our team provides a complete end-to-end service tailored to each customer’s needs.
The successful delivery of the 60kWp Solar PV installation at Askeaton Credit Union demonstrates our commitment to quality workmanship, industry-leading technology, and outstanding customer service.
Whether you are a business owner, commercial property manager, agricultural enterprise, community organisation, or public sector body, VEEP Energy can help you unlock the benefits of renewable energy and take control of your energy future.
Contact Us!
Visit www.veepenergy.ie today to discover the benefits of solar energy and learn how a professionally designed PV system can help reduce your energy costs while lowering your carbon footprint.
Additionally, by visiting our website, you can explore real-life testimonials from satisfied customers who have transformed their homes with solar energy. These stories highlight the tangible benefits of switching to solar, including not just monetary savings but also lifestyle enhancements, such as increased property value and sustainable living practices.
Explore how our Commercial Installation can transform your energy consumption.
For more information, contact our team on (01) 537 7669 or email [email protected].
You can also follow VEEP Energy on social media to keep up with our latest commercial and residential installations, renewable energy news, company updates, and behind-the-scenes project content.
Facebook: @veepenergy
https://www.facebook.com/
Instagram: @veepenergy
https://www.instagram.com/veepenergy/
