Emtec Energy was selected by Scottish Water for a landmark renewable energy project at the Howden Water Treatment Works in Selkirk, marking the utility’s first integration of solar power with battery storage at a water treatment facility. This project sets a new benchmark for sustainability in the sector and showcases Emtec Energy's expertise in delivering complex, innovative energy solutions.

The installation involved a 1.2MW Solar PV system paired with a 1.8MWh DC battery storage unit, featuring 2,112 solar panels and four 50kW inverters. Emtec Energy designed the system to optimize energy generation while avoiding the typical costs and delays of G100 device installation and Distribution Network Operator (DNO) witness testing. This streamlined approach reduced both project costs and timelines, ensuring seamless integration. Notably, the integration of the battery storage system, which fully complies with DNO specifications, enabled the project to avoid grid connection costs of approximately £2.3 million for the client, delivering substantial financial savings.

A significant challenge was the grid's initial limitation of 200kW of inverter power. Emtec Energy addressed this by deploying a 1.8MWh DC battery storage system with a 200kW inverter, which allowed the system size to be scaled up to 1.2MWp. This approach maximized energy generation and improved the site’s carbon offset potential. By adopting a DC-coupled battery storage method, Emtec eliminated energy losses common in AC-DC-AC conversions, enhancing system efficiency and allowing Scottish Water to store cheaper off-peak energy for use during peak times, thereby reducing operational costs.

During the project’s late design stages, Emtec Energy encountered an environmental challenge due to the site’s location within a well field and borehole area. To prevent any risk of contamination, ground penetration was not an option. In response, Emtec changed the piling method securing the super structure with concrete ballast blocks, which allowed for zero ground penetration. This innovative design preserved the site's environmental integrity and ensured full compliance with all regulations. Additionally, all on-site machinery was powered by food-grade HVO biodiesel, and hydraulic machines were selected for their minimal environmental impact.

The site's floodplain location required Emtec to design the system with elevated ground clearance and use surface-run AC and DC cables on containment structures rather than burying them. This mitigated flood risks and enhanced the installation's durability and safety.

The result is a highly efficient solar and battery storage system that continuously supplies 200kW of power to the Howden Water Treatment Works, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and shortening the return on investment for Scottish Water. This project underscores Emtec Energy’s ability to deliver sustainable energy solutions in environmentally sensitive settings, reinforcing their position as a leader in the renewable energy sector.

Chris Clark, Director at Emtec Energy, highlighted the project’s success, stating, “The solar and battery energy storage system at Howden is a significant achievement for us and underscores our commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions. We’ve delivered a high-efficiency system that meets the site’s stringent requirements and aligns with our vision of reducing carbon footprints across Scotland. This project is a testament to the innovative thinking and meticulous planning we bring to every project, and we’re honoured to have partnered with Scottish Water Horizons.”