Underwater Explorers is a dive centre based at Portland Marina, Portland, Dorset (DT5 1FD). To reduce operating costs and strengthen its environmental credentials, it partnered with DES Renewable Energy to install a rooftop solar PV system with battery storage — generating clean electricity on site, lowering energy bills, and supporting its long-term sustainability goals.
Project overview
Underwater Explorers commissioned DES Renewable Energy to install a 27.9 kWp solar PV system across its trapezoidal metal profile roof. The installation comprised 62 x 450 W Astronergy panels connected to a SolaX X3-Ultra 30 kW hybrid inverter, paired with a SolaX Triple Power battery (15.3 kWh). The project aimed to reduce electricity costs, lower carbon emissions, and enhance long-term financial sustainability.
Project details
- Company: Underwater Explorers
- Location: Portland Marina, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1FD
- Solar system capacity: 27.9 kWp
- Estimated annual generation: 28,450 kWh
- Installation type: Trapezoidal metal profile roof, solar panels with battery storage
- Project timeline: Delivered in 2025, from survey to commissioning
The objectives
- Reduce electricity costs and dependence on grid energy
- Improve environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint
- Achieve long-term operational savings and financial returns
- Demonstrate responsible energy practices to customers, staff and stakeholders
The solution: bespoke assessment and design
DES Renewable Energy carried out a comprehensive assessment of roof space, structural considerations, sun exposure and interlocking constraints to ensure optimal placement and system sizing. The system was designed with 62 x 450 W Astronergy panels across the trapezoidal metal profile roof, with power conversion handled by a SolaX X3-Ultra 30 kW hybrid inverter, paired with a SolaX Triple Power battery (15.3 kWh) to maximise self-consumption. We ensured full compliance with building regulations, electrical standards and industry best practice, obtaining all necessary permits and approvals.
Installation and completion
The installation was carried out with minimal disruption to day-to-day site operations. Panels were securely mounted, connected to the inverter, and integrated with the existing electrical system, before comprehensive testing and commissioning verified the system’s performance, functionality and safety. From initial assessment to completed commissioning, DES Renewable Energy provided a turnkey solution.
The results
- Energy cost reduction: lower electricity bills and reduced reliance on grid energy.
- Environmental impact: around 28,450 kWh of clean energy each year, saving an estimated 5.9 tonnes of CO2 annually.
- Financial returns: ongoing energy savings contribute to long-term financial sustainability.
- Public image: demonstrates responsible energy practices to customers, staff and stakeholders.
At a glance
- 62 x 450 W Astronergy panels on a trapezoidal metal profile roof
- 27.9 kWp total system capacity
- SolaX X3-Ultra 30 kW hybrid inverter with a SolaX Triple Power battery (15.3 kWh)
- 28,450 kWh of clean energy generated per year
- An estimated 5.9 tonnes of CO2 saved every year
Our accreditations
DES Renewable Energy is MCS certified, guaranteeing our installations are designed, installed and commissioned to the highest standard using only MCS-certified products. We are also NAPIT certified to install and self-certify our electrical work, and we comply with the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC).
Considering commercial solar for your business?
Our MCS-certified team designs and installs commercial solar, battery storage and EV charging across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire. Start with a free, no-obligation business energy bill check to see your potential savings and payback: get your free bill check or explore commercial solar.
Download the full Underwater Explorers case study (PDF).
More recent commercial & community installations by DES
See more of our recent commercial and community solar projects: Peters & May, Eastleigh (110.67 kWp commercial solar & EV charging), Felixstowe & Walton United FC (38.61 kWp solar, battery & EV) and Leverstock Green FC (19.22 kWp solar & battery).