Project Overview
Radyr Tennis Club, a busy community club in the heart of South Wales, took a significant step towards sustainability by installing two solar and battery storage systems on its clubhouse facilities.
The project was designed not only to reduce reliance on the grid but also to manage peak usage—particularly from the floodlight system—more effectively.
System Breakdown
System 1 – Solar & Battery Hybrid (Floodlight Supply)
- Solar Panels: 21 x Sharp NU-JC430 (430W)
- Inverter: 8kW 3-phase Fox E.S.S.
- Battery Storage: 2 x E.P. 11 (10kW)
- Purpose: Primarily supports the floodlight system.
System 2 – Battery Only (Main Club Supply)
- Battery Storage: 1 x E.P. 11 (10kW)
- Charger: Fox E.S.S. A.C. Charger
Purpose: Independent of the PV system; linked to a separate meter supplying the main clubhouse.
What the Club Had to Say
“As this was quoted against a number of other companies, we felt the quote was competitive. You were able to adapt and modify it to meet both our needs and those of our funding partner.”
— Mike Clarke, Radyr Tennis Club
Quotation & Planning
Radyr Tennis Club compared quotes from several installers. We ensured our offering stood out by providing:
- A detailed and adaptable proposal, tailored to meet funding deadlines.
- A transparent breakdown of costs and options.
- Flexibility to amend the design to secure the most value.
“The quote was supplied in a timely manner and supported the timescales of our funding partner.”
Installation Process
Being an active sports club, minimising disruption was a key priority. We timed scaffolding around quiet periods and ensured quick removal post-installation.
“Scaffolding was a concern, but it was installed during a quiet time and dismantled promptly after the job was completed.”
While there was a slight delay to the installation start date, the overall process was completed efficiently with minimal interference to the club’s activities.
System Performance & Monitoring
Though it’s still early days, the club has already seen encouraging results:
“It’s pleasing to see that much of the load is currently being drawn from the PV and batteries, and that the batteries are being topped up from the installation.”
A full review is planned after 12 months to evaluate long-term performance, revenue generation, and savings.
Aftercare & Support
Post-installation, Radyr Tennis Club highlighted a common challenge—navigating the world of energy export payments.
“It was unclear how to get payments for export. A recommendation or help completing the process would have been appreciated.”
While the installation itself was a success, we recognise the importance of ongoing education and support, particularly in helping clients manage export submissions and monitoring tools more confidently.
Summary of Outcomes
- ✔️ Installed 21 high-efficiency Sharp 430W panels
- ✔️ Integrated dual battery systems for tailored energy usage
- ✔️ Delivered a flexible, funder-friendly quote
- ✔️ Minimal disruption to club operations
- ✔️ Early signs of reduced grid dependency
Opportunity to improve post-install guidance around grid exports.
Looking Ahead
With both systems now live, Radyr Tennis Club is positioned to benefit from lower energy costs, a reduced carbon footprint, and greater control over energy usage—especially during peak operational periods like evening training under floodlights.
“We’ll know more in a year’s time, but we’re optimistic. This is a big step forward in making the club more sustainable.”
Expert Insight from Marcus Hall, Renewable Energy Consultant
“We were up against several other quotes, but I believe our laid-back, consultative approach and clear explanation of the proposed systems—with a competitive edge—won us the business.
The club already had solar panels installed, so we complemented their setup with a 10.36kWh battery-only system to capture excess energy for later use.
In addition, we installed a brand-new 9.03kW PV system with 20.72kWh of battery storage, connected to a separate 3-phase supply that now powers their floodlights.
It’s a tailored solution that balances energy independence with smarter usage—perfect for a community-focused club like Radyr.”
Powering Communities, One Project at a Time
Radyr Tennis Club’s move to solar is a brilliant example of how even local clubs can take practical steps toward reducing costs and embracing greener energy. With the right design, advice, and support, a custom solution like this one can make all the difference.
