Draper Tools warehouse spans 23,700 square metres, putting it in the top 0.5% in size of the 1.4 million buildings in Hampshire. This size provided exceptional solar potential, resulting in 904solar panels to be installed south-facing for optimal performance. This was no mean feat with Absolar installers clocking over 4 million steps and using 12.5kilometres of cable across the vast roof.
“Firstly, this is the right thing to do – both for the local community and the environment at large.” - Matt Sheen, Draper CEO
“We are so lucky to have collaborations between these two businesses, both of which are based locally.”- Caroline Nokes, MP
The larger the roof, the greater the solar potential. This is because more panels can be installed, improving electricity generation and Return on Investment. For example, Draper’s panels generate 73%of the faculty’s power needs, resulting in significant reductions in electricity bills.
Key energy monitoring metrics from this solar installation are monitored live from Draper’s energy dashboard, provided by Absolar. This was unveiled by Caroline Nokes MP, with various sustainability representatives in attendance, including those from Southampton FC and Southampton Science Park. The event included speeches from Draper CEO Matt Sheen, Absolar CEO Dr Phil Wu, and Caroline Nokes MP.
“Having businesses that are prepared to do the right thing and make the investment, that in the long term will save them money, is really great for the entire community.” - Caroline Nokes, MP
“Solar power is just another way we are looking to ensure that our operations are as climate friendly as possible.”- Matt Sheen, Draper CEO
As mentioned, this event revolved around Draper Tools’ new solar energy monitoring dashboard. Displaying live feedback is key in understanding the impact of the commercial installation. For example, the kilowatts of energy produced each day shows you in real time exactly how much electricity your commercial solar system produces, and thus how much money it is saving your business. Furthermore, the bar chart of the week’s performance is a useful indicator of solar panel performance, allowing any problems to be addressed immediately.
The carbon savings for the day, and thus far, are also important metrics to display as they can be used to assess and market the company’s environmental contributions. Draper Tools have their dashboard in the reception area, allowing their 47.3 tonnes of carbon savings to be within eyeshot of both staff and visitors.
“Draper Tools’ ambitious solar project is a perfect example of how businesses can lead the way in sustainability.” - Dr Phil Wu, Absolar CEO
“The installation means that more than 100 tonnes of CO2 will be saved each year.” - Matt Sheen, Draper CEO
Absolar’s Remote Solar Surveys were also on show during the event, with Caroline Nokes MP receiving a live demonstration of just how quickly you can check the solar potential of a commercial building. This technology was instrumental in informing Draper Tools on the investment potential of their commercial solar installation, presenting key financial and environmental figures in a bespoke one-page report.
“We are proud to have partnered with Draper Tools to design, deliver and manage this high-impact installation, demonstrating the added value of AI-powered technology in helping energy users benefit from sustainable energy systems.” - Dr Phil Wu, Absolar CEO
“When you look at the difference that these solar panels are going to make to Draper’s carbon footprint its huge.” - Caroline Nokes, MP
This event celebrated the important steps towards sustainability at Draper Tools, in particular their solar journey but also shedding light on their ISO 14001 certification, reduced plastic packaging, and success in recycling of more than 80% of their waste. Furthermore, the unveiling highlighted the ease of the solar journey, with no disruptions despite heat waves and thunderstorms.
The event also highlighted the importance of Absolar’s state-of-the-art AI and Remote Sensing tools, which combined with solar designers and engineers provided accurate estimations of Draper’s solar potential. Together with up-to-date market data, the certainty over installation costs and investment returns facilitated the confidence necessary to invest in commercial solar installation, and receive strong returns.
“The solar panels here have already generated enough power for brewing 6.7 million cups of tea.” - Matt Sheen, Draper CEO
“By embracing solar power alongside their other sustainable commitments, they are reducing carbon emissions, securing long-term energy savings, and setting a benchmark for other companies in the region.” - Dr Phil Wu, Absolar CEO
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