Network Rail called on ProStar Energy to design and install a 54 kWp commercial solar system at their maintenance depot in Hertfordshire. With energy costs a growing pressure across the rail sector, the goal was straightforward: reduce operating costs, lower carbon output, and deliver a system that would perform reliably in a demanding working environment.
Client: Network Rail
System Size: 54 kWp
Cost: £42,500
Annual Savings: £8,998
Estimated Payback Period: 4 years 5 months (21.17% ROI)
Carbon Offset: 11 tonnes CO₂ annually
Challenges and Solutions
Installing solar at a live Network Rail maintenance depot requires careful coordination. Depot operations run continuously, so every stage of the installation had to be planned around site activity to avoid disruption. Our team worked closely with Network Rail's facilities team to schedule works efficiently, ensuring the project was completed on time and within budget without interfering with day-to-day depot operations.
Key Results
The completed 54 kWp system is now generating clean energy directly for the Hertfordshire depot, producing measurable results from day one.
Annual savings of around £9,000 significantly reduce the depot's energy overheads, with a full return on investment expected within 4 years and 5 months. For a facility of this nature, that is a strong financial outcome and one that continues to improve as grid energy prices rise.
The environmental impact is equally significant. The system offsets in the region of 11 tonnes of CO₂ annually, supporting Network Rail's broader sustainability commitments and helping to reduce the carbon footprint of their maintenance operations in a practical, measurable way.
Built using high-quality components and backed by ProStar Energy's aftercare service, the system is designed to deliver strong performance for decades to come. Ongoing monitoring ensures any changes in output are identified and addressed quickly, protecting the long-term return on this investment.
Conclusion
This project is a strong example of how commercial solar can deliver genuine value in operational environments where reliability is non-negotiable. Network Rail needed a system that would perform consistently, cause minimal disruption during installation, and deliver a clear return. That is exactly what was achieved.
With over 50 years of expertise and a full turn-key service covering everything from site survey to aftercare, ProStar Energy is well placed to support infrastructure operators looking to take control of their energy costs. If your organisation is ready to explore what solar could offer, get in touch with our team on 03316 302 225 or complete our contact form to arrange a free site survey.
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