Warwick Solar Installation for VDL Steelweld

50kWp solar and workplace EV charging for a global manufacturer

When VDL Steelweld UK wanted to reduce energy costs and prepare for an electric vehicle future, they needed more than just solar panels. They wanted an integrated renewable energy solution that would support both their manufacturing operations and workplace charging.

Stratford Energy Solutions designed and installed a 50kWp commercial solar PV system, alongside four Zappi EV chargers, enabling the Warwick facility to generate clean electricity on-site while providing convenient charging for employees and visitors.

Despite a complex grid connection involving multiple MPANs and a lengthy funding process, the project now delivers lower operating costs, reduced carbon emissions and long-term energy resilience.

Project at a glance

Location	Warwick
Client	VDL Steelweld UK
Industry	Automotive Manufacturing
Solar Capacity	50kWp
Solar Panels	100 × Trina 500W
EV Chargers	4 × Zappi
Annual Generation	Approximately 40MWh
Total Energy Generated	127.3MWh
Carbon Saved	25 tonnes CO₂
Estimated Payback	8.8 years

The challenge

As part of its sustainability strategy, VDL Steelweld UK wanted to:

• Reduce rising electricity costs
• Generate renewable energy on-site
• Support the transition to electric vehicles
• Improve environmental performance
• Make use of available grant funding

The project wasn’t straightforward. Funding delays extended the procurement process, while the site’s electrical infrastructure required a more complex grid application because the premises operated across two MPANs. Rather than allowing these challenges to compromise the project, Stratford Energy worked closely with all stakeholders to deliver a solution that met both technical and commercial objectives.

Our solution

Following a detailed site assessment, Stratford Energy designed a renewable energy system tailored to the facility’s operational needs.

The installation included:

• 100 Trina 500W solar panels delivering 50kWp of generation capacity
• Four MyEnergi Zappi EV chargers for staff and visitor charging
• Grid connection management across multiple supply points
• End-to-end project management from design through commissioning

By combining solar generation with workplace EV charging, the site can make better use of self-generated electricity while supporting the company’s growing adoption of electric vehicles.

Results

Since commissioning, the system has produced measurable business and environmental benefits.

Lower energy costs

The solar array has generated more than 127MWh of renewable electricity, averaging around 40MWh each year, reducing reliance on grid electricity and helping to protect the business from rising energy prices.

Workplace EV charging

Employees and visitors now have access to four on-site EV chargers powered, where possible, by the electricity generated from the solar PV system. This supports the company’s sustainability goals while improving workplace facilities.

Reduced carbon emissions

The installation has already prevented more than 25 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, contributing towards VDL Steelweld UK’s wider environmental commitments.

Strong financial return

With an estimated 8.8-year payback period, the system is expected to continue delivering significant savings over its operating lifetime.

Overcoming technical challenges

One of the most valuable aspects of this project wasn’t simply installing the equipment. It was successfully navigating the technical complexities.

Managing the grid application across two MPANs required detailed planning and coordination with the Distribution Network Operator. Combined with changing funding requirements and an extended procurement period, this project demonstrates Stratford Energy’s ability to deliver commercial renewable energy installations even where the route to completion is more complex than a standard installation.

Key outcomes

• 50kWp commercial solar PV installation
• Four workplace EV chargers installed
• Over 127MWh of renewable electricity generated
• Approximately 40MWh generated annually
• More than 25 tonnes of CO₂ emissions avoided
• 8.8-year projected return on investment
• Future-ready workplace charging infrastructure

Planning commercial solar or workplace EV charging?

Whether you’re looking to reduce operating costs, electrify your vehicle fleet or improve your organisation’s sustainability credentials, Stratford Energy Solutions designs and installs bespoke commercial solar PV and EV charging systems across the Midlands and beyond.

Talk to our commercial renewable energy team to discuss your project.