Willot Hall, a Grade II listed medieval country house in Prestbury, Cheshire, is now harnessing solar energy while maintaining its historic character with a 54kWp Solar PV system designed and installed by Solarcrown Commercial (SCC). This project proves that sustainability and heritage can work together, showing how historic sites can benefit from modern renewable energy solutions.
To ensure the system complemented the estate’s unique setting while meeting energy efficiency goals, SCC installed 108 solar PV modules covering 253.7m², supported by two inverters. The system was fully compliant, with DNO approval from Electricity Northwest, and is expected to achieve a four-year return.
Overcoming Challenges in a Heritage Setting
Installing solar panels on a Grade II listed building comes with unique challenges, requiring careful planning, structural assessments and compliance with conservation regulations. To maintain the estate’s historic integrity, SCC strategically placed the solar PV system on adjoining barns rather than the main hall. This solution preserved the property’s aesthetics while still providing significant energy benefits.
Another challenge was protecting the dressed lawn during installation. To avoid disruption, SCC used a remote-control mole device to lay cables underground, eliminating the need for excavation. Additionally, the system was designed to integrate with Willot Hall’s backup diesel generator, ensuring a consistent and reliable power supply.
End-to-End Project Management
SCC managed the entire process, from planning and installation to system handover. As part of our comprehensive service, we provided a detailed client pack, including:
- Solar PV Commercial Survey Report
- Wind & Snow Load Calculations
- System Component Datasheets
- Risk Assessments & Method Statements (RAMS)
- Solar Array Test Reports
- Electrical Schematics & Installation Certificates
- Planning & Structural Reports
- G99 Grid Compliance Documentation
- As-Installed PVsol Performance Report
- Inverter Operating Manual & Warranty Certificates
We also implemented a half-hourly data reporting system to monitor live energy output, ensuring the system performs as expected.
Sustainability & Long-Term Impact
With a four-year payback period, this project highlights the financial and environmental benefits of renewable energy in historic properties. The system significantly reduces carbon emissions, helping Willot Hall become more sustainable without altering its heritage status. SCC’s expertise in navigating complex heritage projects ensures that solar energy can be integrated without compromising the character of listed buildings.
The Willot Hall project showcases SCC’s ability to balance tradition with innovation, delivering a tailored renewable energy solution that meets sustainability goals while preserving architectural heritage. By addressing the challenges of working within a Grade II listed site, SCC successfully delivered a high-performing solar PV system that enhances energy efficiency while keeping the estate’s character intact.
“We have many suppliers across multi disciplines servicing Willot Hall and I would rank SCC in the top five as they delivered exactly what they promised, without compromise and took the whole project on board end to end. We now only need to watch the savings come in on the eMIG app they set up for us. SCC are a great company that I would highly recommended.”
Dave Mook, Owner
