Vital Solar, a leading solar panel installation company, specializes in providing sustainable energy solutions to residential and commercial clients. This case study demonstrates Vital Solar’s expertise in delivering tailored solar solutions by showcasing the successful installation of a solar panel system for a retired couple looking to gain energy independence.
Client Background
The clients, a retired couple living in Auckland, sought to reduce their reliance on the grid due to their fixed income and concerns about rising energy costs. Following the Auckland floods, the couple experienced several power outages, prompting them to seek a more reliable energy source. They were also keen on integrating a battery solution to further ensure their energy independence.
Challenges
Before turning to Vital Solar, the couple faced the following challenges:
- Frequent power outages after the Auckland floods, making their energy supply unreliable.
- High energy costs that impacted their limited retirement income.
- The need for a battery storage system to ensure continuous energy access during grid outages.
- Desire to reduce their carbon footprint and take advantage of renewable energy.
Solution
Vital Solar designed and installed a customized solar energy system to meet the couple’s needs. The solution included:
- 15 Maxeon AC solar panels (425W each) paired with 15 Enphase IQ7A microinverters to optimize power generation.
- A battery storage system consisting of 2 IQ5IP batteries with an IQ Controller to store up to 10 kWh of energy for use during outages.
- Energy efficiency measures were implemented to maximize the benefits of the solar and battery system.
Implementation Process
- Initial Assessment and Energy Audit: The team conducted a thorough audit of the client’s energy consumption and needs.
- Design and Planning: After three site visits, Vital Solar designed a system that would optimize energy production and storage.
- Installation: The installation process took two days to complete.
- Permits and Certifications: Vital Solar handled the necessary approvals, including:
- Application for Distribution Approval from Vector.
- Issuance of a Certificate of Compliance from Vital Solar.
- An independent inspection by AA Electrical.
- Assistance with upgrading the couple’s Import/Export Meter through their energy provider, Ecotricity.
Results
- Energy Savings: Since the installation, the couple’s energy consumption has been drastically reduced. Their first energy bill, received 10 months later, showed significant cost savings.
- Cost Savings: The couple experienced a substantial decrease in energy costs, leading to quicker-than-expected ROI.
- Environmental Impact: The system has reduced their carbon footprint, helping them contribute to a more sustainable future.
- Client Feedback: The couple expressed satisfaction with both the installation process and the results, praising Vital Solar for their professionalism and assistance with technicalities like energy provider coordination.
Conclusion
This project exemplifies Vital Solar’s ability to deliver tailored solar solutions that not only meet but exceed client expectations. By ensuring energy independence for the couple and reducing their reliance on the grid, Vital Solar showcased its expertise in addressing energy challenges in post-flood Auckland. This case study highlights the company’s ability to manage similar solar and battery projects in the future.
