Lanman Solar had the privilege of working with Oliver Paul, one of the directors at the Suffolk Food Hall, on a solar panel installation at Freston Farm — one of the farms that supplies the food hall.
Recognising both the strategic and financial benefits of solar energy, Oliver and his team decided to invest in a photovoltaic solar array from Lanman Solar.
SYSTEM SIZE: 48kWp
BATTERY STORAGE: This will be added in 'Phase 2'
PANELS INSTALLED: 124 (Trina)
ESTIMATED SAVINGS: 70% energy reduction
PAYBACK PERIOD: 6 years
With rising energy costs and a clear commitment to sustainability, the installation was seen as both a sound business decision and a strong marketing asset. The solar array not only helps reduce operational costs, but also strengthens the green credentials that matter to Suffolk Food Hall and its customers.
A portion of the energy generated is also used to support the holiday lets on the property, helping the wider site benefit from lower energy costs and cleaner power.
The installation consists of a 48kW solar PV array, split into two sections. One part supplies power to the farmhouse and a number of commercial tenants, while the other helps power the holiday lets.
We were also asked to fit 2 x Zappi EV chargers too - to enable customers using the holiday lets to purchase green energy from the panels to charge their vehicles during their stay.
Over the first year, the system performed extremely well, giving the team a clear view of both the financial savings and environmental benefits. The array is estimated to offset around one tonne of carbon per year — roughly the equivalent of planting 40 to 50 trees annually.
Beyond the environmental benefits, the financial savings have also been significant. The system is currently saving approximately £4,500 per year, depending on the export arrangement in place at any given time.
Looking ahead, the next step may be to add battery storage, allowing more of the site’s excess solar energy to be stored and used later in the day or overnight.
When assessing the project, Oliver focused on two key factors: the expected payback period and the capital investment required. Having previously worked with Lanman Solar, he knew the team could provide not only a competitive quote, but also a practical and efficient installation process.
Based on the first year of performance data, the projected payback period is between six and a half and eight years — a strong return on investment for a system designed to last for decades.
"The system is currently saving approximately £4,500 per year and will be paid off within another 5-7 years. It also offsets a ton of carbon each year, which is the equivalent to planting 40-50 new trees each year!"
Oliver Paul, 2025
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