Pioneering Commercial Solar Water Heating Systems in Penzance, Cornwall

Located in the picturesque town of Penzance, Cornwall, The Queens Hotel stands proudly as a 70-bedroom hotel overlooking the charming Promenade. Celtic Renewable Energy, a leading renewable energy company based in Cornwall, was entrusted with the task of transforming the hotel’s energy infrastructure. Previously relying on two Hoval boilers to provide hot water for the hotel’s bedrooms, kitchen, and laundry, the management sought a sustainable and cost-effective solution.

Celtic Renewable Energy took up the challenge and worked with Hot Solar Water to design a state-of-the-art Solar Water Heating system for The Queens Hotel. The system consisted of 14 LSP20+ Premium Commercial solar collectors, strategically configured into two banks of seven on the fourth story roof of the hotel. These solar panels were tasked with supplying heat to two 500 L pre-heat cylinders, which, in turn, fed the Hoval boilers responsible for meeting the hotel’s hot water demands. To ensure the safety of the water supply, each cylinder was equipped with a stratification pump, running for one hour in every 24 to protect against legionella.

The installation process presented its own unique set of challenges. All the solar panels had to be expertly craned to the rooftop, while the hefty hot water cylinders were maneuvered into the building through a specially “modified” window opening at the rear of the hotel. Despite the logistical intricacies, Celtic Renewable Energy completed the installation swiftly, taking just four days to finalize the project. Remarkably, the disruption to hotel guests was kept to an absolute minimum during this period.

The innovative solar water heating system is fully automated, featuring a sophisticated digital controller that ensures optimal operation at all times. Even during periods of low light levels, the system continues to harness solar energy, significantly reducing the hotel’s energy costs.

In its inaugural year of operation, the system demonstrated its effectiveness by collecting an impressive 18,000 kWh of energy. This remarkable performance made a substantial contribution to the hotel’s hot water supply, solidifying the decision to invest in renewable energy technology. The Queens Hotel’s commitment to environmental sustainability extends beyond its solar water heating system. The hotel had already transitioned to energy-efficient lighting throughout the building, replacing traditional bulbs with low-energy alternatives. In line with their dedication to reducing their carbon footprint, the hotel actively pursues various measures to promote energy conservation.

Celtic Renewable Energy recognizes the importance of promoting green credentials in the tourism industry. To this end, they provided an interactive display board in the hotel’s main reception area, offering valuable information about the solar system. Visitors can engage with remote controllers to gauge the system’s efficiency and review operating data. These interactive displays seamlessly integrate with the system’s programming, ensuring ease of use and understanding.

This commitment to transparency and sustainability has become a hallmark of Celtic Renewable Energy’s installations within the tourism sector. The Queens Hotel in Penzance now stands as a shining example of how commercial solar water heating systems can play a vital role in reducing energy consumption and environmental impact within the hospitality industry.