Harrods distribution centre looking to install solar PV panels

Harrods distribution centre in Thatcham has applied for permission to install photovoltaic panels on its roof.

Photovoltaic panels, or solar PV panels, capture the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity for use in the home or for businesses.

The distribution centre, on Mill Lane, hopes to cover the entire roof with the panels, delivering approximately 1,600kWp of solar capacity.

The applicant said the roof of the warehouse was chosen as "the most appropriate" location, creating no visual impact on the surrounding landscape.

The PV array, comprising 4,967 cells, will provide 1,361,600kWhrs of annual output offsetting 1,157,360Kwhrs.

This is 41 per cent of the site's annual power requirement.

The application states 85 per cent of the power produced by the installation will be consumed on site, stored in the battery storage with 15 per cent exported during the peak summer days.

The installation will cost £2,560,000 with a pay back of 11 years for the company. The total return over 25 years is said to be £3,650,000.

The pay back will take 11 years for the company. The total return over 25 years is said to be £3,650,000.

More information can be found by searching 22/02986/FULMAJ into West Berkshire Council’s online planning portal.