The location of the Walton Solar PV Farm. Image: HBS New Energies
HBS New Energies is to develop and deliver Affinity Water’s solar PV programme, with a 553kWp ground-mounted array under construction.
The farm, which is due to be completed in early 2022, is the first project to be delivered under phase one of a rollout of renewables. Made up of 1,216 solar panels, the Walton Solar PV Farm will provide up to 10% of Walton Water Treatment Works’ energy consumption, with the works using around 5,547,346kWh of energy per year.
"Using our extensive experience and technical expertise within the water utility sector, we are perfectly positioned to support Affinity Water and build high-performance solar installations," John Toms, head of commercial at HBS New Energies, said.
The water utility sector has been a key focus for HBS New Energies, having also developed solar for Anglian Water, Welsh Water, Thames Water and United Utilities. Solar PV developed for Anglian Water by HBS New Energies includes a 900kWp system at its Jaywick Water Recycling Centre in Essex, an 11.65MW ground-mounted solar array at Grafham Water and a 500kWp array at its Shenfield & Hutton water recycling centre among others.
HBS New Energies has also secured a number of residential rooftop contracts, including with Wain Homes, Lovell Homes and Taylor Wimpey.