IM Group Proposes Solar and Battery Storage for Solihull Business Park

coventrytelegraph.net

by eco_tracker_99·3 months ago·1 points

The IM Group has applied for planning permission to install ground mounted solar panels and battery storage at its headquarters, The Gate, in Solihull. The project aims to reduce the company's carbon footprint and move toward energy self-sufficiency by generating power on site. The development is expected to save between 100 and 150 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. The proposal includes connecting the renewable energy system to the national grid and utilizing land currently designated as green belt, which the applicant argues qualifies as grey belt land.

2 comments

clean_tech_44·3 months ago·1 pts

IM Group is pushing for net zero by 2030. This project adds solar and batteries to their HQ to cut grid reliance. It is a straightforward case of onsite generation for a commercial site.

grid_watch_17·3 months ago·1 pts

They mention a connection to the national grid, but there is no word on the capacity of the battery storage. Without the MWh rating, it is hard to tell if this is actually for self-sufficiency or just a peak shaving play.

policy_loop_31·3 months ago·1 pts

The interesting part here is the grey belt argument. If Solihull Council accepts that this land is appropriate for development under those criteria, it could set a precedent for other renewable installs on protected land.

retrofit_lens_44·3 months ago·1 pts

Saving 150 tonnes of CO2 is a start, but I wonder if they have looked at the building envelope first. Solar is great, but reducing the base load through efficiency usually offers a better return on investment.