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Project Overview
Linear Insulation, specialists in all aspects of insulation and trace heating since 2006, recently occupied their new premises on Lockwood Close in Nottingham. With rising electricity costs and a strong commitment to reducing their environmental impact, they approached Spectrum Energy Systems seeking a comprehensive solar solution that would maximise the potential of their substantial roof space.
Our team designed and installed a 66.85kW commercial solar installation featuring 147 JA Solar 455W panels paired with a powerful Solis 50kW inverter. This substantial system now generates over 55,500 kWh of clean energy annually, covering 39% of the business's energy requirements and slashing their monthly electricity bills from £1,193 to just £215—an impressive 82% reduction.
As an MCS certified and NICEIC approved installer with over 14 years of experience in commercial solar installations, we were well-positioned to deliver a professional installation that met Linear Insulation's ambitious energy goals whilst completing the project in just five days.
This Project Is Ideal If You Have:
A portal frame or industrial building with substantial roof space
Monthly electricity bills over £500 you want to reduce
Daytime operations that align with solar generation hours
Corporate sustainability goals or carbon reduction targets
The Challenge
Having recently moved into their new premises, Linear Insulation faced the challenge that many growing businesses encounter: balancing operational costs with environmental responsibility. With monthly electricity bills of £1,193, energy costs were a significant overhead that needed addressing.
As a company specialising in insulation—a sector inherently focused on energy efficiency—Linear Insulation recognised the importance of practising what they preach. They wanted to make a visible commitment to sustainability that would resonate with their clients and demonstrate genuine environmental credentials.
The building itself presented an excellent opportunity. The standard portal frame construction offered a large, unobstructed metal roof with good solar access. Linear Insulation's ambition was clear: they wanted to maximise this potential and fill the roof with as much solar capacity as practically possible.
Our task was to design a system that would deliver meaningful energy savings, demonstrate strong return on investment, and align with Linear Insulation's values as an energy-conscious business. Our experience in expert commercial solar fitting meant we could deliver exactly what they needed.
Our Solution
We designed a substantial 66.85kW solar PV system utilising an east-west array configuration across the metal portal frame roof. This orientation spreads energy production more evenly throughout the day, rather than creating a single midday peak—particularly beneficial for businesses with consistent energy consumption from morning until evening.
The system incorporates 147 JA Solar 455W panels, chosen for their excellent efficiency, proven track record, and strong performance in UK conditions. JA Solar is one of the world's leading panel manufacturers, and their products consistently deliver reliable generation year after year.
At the heart of the system sits a powerful Solis 50kW inverter, converting the DC electricity generated by the panels into usable AC power for Linear Insulation's operations. The Solis inverter offers excellent efficiency and comprehensive monitoring capabilities, allowing the team to track their generation and savings in real time.
A key feature of this installation was the smart, professional cable containment using galvanised trunking. The cabling runs neatly from the roof and down the side of the building, ensuring a clean, professional finish that reflects the quality of the installation itself. For businesses concerned about aesthetics as well as performance, this attention to detail demonstrates our commitment to installations that look as good as they perform.
Technical Specifications
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Installation Process
The installation was completed in just five days—efficient progress for a system of this substantial size. The portal frame building's metal roof provided an ideal working environment with straightforward access and ample space for the 147-panel array.
Our team began by erecting scaffolding for safe roof access, then systematically installed the mounting clamps directly to the metal roof sheets. These clamps secure the panels without penetrating the roof membrane, maintaining the building's weatherproofing integrity whilst providing robust attachment points.
With the mounting system in place, we lifted the JA Solar panels to roof level and positioned them in the carefully planned east-west configuration. Each panel was securely fixed and wired into the system, with our installers working efficiently across the large roof area.
Particular attention was paid to the cable management, with all DC cabling routed through galvanised trunking from the roof array down the building's exterior. This professional approach ensures longevity, easy maintenance access, and a clean aesthetic that reflects the quality of the overall installation.
All electrical work, including the Solis 50kW inverter installation and grid connection, was completed to the highest standards by our NICEIC-qualified electricians. The system was fully commissioned and handed over with comprehensive monitoring configured to allow Linear Insulation to track their generation and savings from day one. Our commercial solar installation approach ensures every project meets the highest professional standards.
Project Video
Watch our installation team in action at Linear Insulation, showcasing the scale of this commercial solar project and the professional approach required for a portal frame industrial building installation.
Results & Impact
Since commissioning, the 67kW system has transformed Linear Insulation's energy position. The combination of high-efficiency JA Solar panels, intelligent east-west orientation, and a powerful Solis inverter delivers consistent performance that translates directly to their bottom line.
Key Results
The system has reduced monthly electricity costs from £1,193 to just £215—a saving of 82%. With an exceptional payback period of just 3.3 years, this represents one of the strongest returns we've delivered for a commercial client. After payback, the system continues generating electricity for 25+ years with minimal ongoing costs.
Beyond the immediate financial benefits, the installation saves approximately 10.7 tonnes of CO₂ annually—equivalent to planting nearly 500 trees. For Linear Insulation, a company in the energy efficiency sector, this tangible demonstration of environmental commitment strengthens their credibility with clients and stakeholders alike.
The system has also increased the property's value, providing an additional benefit beyond the operational savings. Excess generation is exported to the grid, providing further income through the Smart Export Guarantee.
For businesses considering similar investments, our guide to smart solar investment provides detailed insights into maximising return on investment from commercial solar installations.
See What Solar Could Save Your Business
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What Our Client Says
We would definitely recommend Spectrum Energy Systems. They delivered a professional installation in the time they said they would, and they've given us a 3.3 year payback—exceptional value for a system of this size.— Linear Insulation
The team at Linear Insulation were excellent to work with—professional, engaged, and clear about their goals from the outset. We're delighted they chose Spectrum and that they're now enjoying the substantial benefits of one of our largest recent commercial installations.
Project Gallery
Common Questions Before Going Solar
"Is my industrial roof actually suitable?"
Portal frame buildings with metal roofs are often ideal for solar. We assess structural capacity, roof condition, and orientation during our site survey. Linear Insulation's standard portal frame provided excellent mounting options and ample space.
"Do I need battery storage?"
Not necessarily. Linear Insulation opted for solar-only, achieving 82% bill savings without batteries. If your business operates primarily during daylight hours, solar generation often aligns well with consumption, making batteries less essential.
"Why choose Spectrum over other installers?"
14+ years experience, MCS/NICEIC certified, and we're local to Nottingham. We delivered Linear Insulation's substantial 67kW system in just 5 days with professional cable management that looks as good as it performs.
"What's the actual investment required?"
Every system is bespoke, so costs vary based on size and complexity. We provide detailed ROI projections showing payback period, annual savings, and 25-year returns—so you can make an informed decision with real numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most commercial solar installations take between 3-10 days depending on system size and complexity. This 67kW installation at Linear Insulation was completed in just 5 days, including all electrical work and commissioning. Portal frame buildings with good roof access typically allow for efficient installation timelines, and we always provide a clear schedule before work begins.
Portal frame buildings are excellent for commercial solar installations. The metal roof structure provides straightforward mounting options using non-penetrative clamps, and the large unobstructed roof areas typical of industrial units allow for substantial system sizes. We assess structural capacity and roof condition during our site survey to confirm suitability for your specific property.
Commercial solar payback periods typically range from 3-7 years depending on system size, your energy usage patterns, and current electricity costs. Linear Insulation achieved an exceptional 3.3-year payback period with their 67kW system—one of the strongest returns we've delivered. After payback, the system continues generating electricity for 25+ years with minimal ongoing costs.
Not necessarily. Linear Insulation opted for a solar-only system without battery storage and achieved 82% bill savings. For businesses that primarily operate during daylight hours, solar generation often aligns well with energy consumption, making batteries less essential. We assess your usage patterns and recommend the most cost-effective solution for your specific situation.
Savings depend on your current electricity costs, system size, and how much solar energy you can use directly rather than exporting. Linear Insulation reduced their monthly bills from £1,193 to just £215—an 82% saving of nearly £12,000 per year. Businesses with high daytime energy usage and substantial roof space typically see the best returns. We provide personalised savings projections based on your actual bills during our assessment.
Ready to See What Solar Could Do for Your Business?
Join businesses like Linear Insulation who are cutting energy costs by 82% or more. Get a bespoke solar assessment with ROI projections tailored to your property and energy usage.
Learn More About Commercial Solar
If you're considering a commercial solar installation for your business, our comprehensive resources can help you understand the process, benefits, and what to expect. Read our complete business solar guide for detailed information on system sizing, ROI calculations, and the installation process.
Browse more examples of our work across various sectors in our commercial solar case studies, or learn about our ongoing maintenance and care services that keep systems performing at their best for decades.
