Case Study: Gurteen Bay Campsite

Customer Objective

Our Sustainable Solar PV Solution for Gurteen Bay Campsite

Background: Gurteen Bay Campsite, situated on the scenic Roundstone Peninsula in Connemara, Co. Galway, offers visitors breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and easy access to the pristine beaches of Gurteen Bay and Dogs Bay. As a popular destination, the campsite experiences high energy demand, due to the need for consistent electricity and hot water supply for its numerous visitors. To manage these high energy costs and to reduce its environmental impact, campsite owner Ciaran Mullen decided to explore renewable energy solutions and, in particular, solar energy.

The Challenge: The primary challenge for Gurteen Bay Campsite was the significant energy consumption required to maintain comfortable facilities for guests. The high cost of electricity and the need for a more sustainable operation prompted Ciaran to consider a solar photovoltaic (PV) system as a viable solution.

The Solution: Partnering with Solgrid, Ciaran Mullen implemented a state-of-the-art solar PV system at the campsite. The system includes 61 Q-cell 490Wp panels, with a total output of 29.89 kWp, installed across 142.1 m². This setup, complemented by two Huawei inverters and an Eddie Immersion Controller, ensures that the campsite’s energy needs are met more sustainably and cost-effectively.

Project Goals

Reduce Energy Costs: Achieve significant reductions in annual electricity expenses by generating at least 28.4% of the campsite’s energy needs through the newly installed solar PV system, leading to substantial cost savings and a quick return on investment within 3.4 years.
Enhance Sustainability: Minimize the environmental impact of the campsite by reducing CO₂ emissions by over 9,000 kg per year, aligning with the broader goals of sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices.
Increase Energy Self-sufficiency: Improve the campsite’s energy independence by relying on a reliable solar PV system that provides a consistent supply of renewable energy, ensuring a sustainable power source for the campsite’s high-demand needs, including electricity and hot water for guests.

Project Benefits

Cost Savings: The solar PV system significantly reduces reliance on grid electricity, achieving first-year savings of €6,679.26. The payback period is an impressive 3.4 years, supported by an internal rate of return (IRR) of 30.84%.
Environmental Impact: The system helps the campsite avoid 9,163 kg of CO₂ emissions annually, contributing to a greener operation and aligning with the owner’s sustainability goals.
Energy Self-sufficiency: The system covers 28.4% of the campsite’s total energy needs, enhancing energy independence and stability.