Virtue Aerospace is an aerospace company based in Waterlooville, Hampshire. To reduce its operating costs and strengthen its environmental credentials, it partnered with DES Renewable Energy to install a solar PV system that generates clean electricity onsite, lowers energy bills, and supports its long-term sustainability goals.
Project overview
Virtue Aerospace commissioned DES Renewable Energy to install a 52.8 kWp solar PV system. The installation comprised 80 x 660W Aiko panels connected to a 33kW SolarEdge inverter. The project aimed to reduce electricity costs, lower carbon emissions, and enhance long-term financial sustainability.
Project details
- Company: Virtue Aerospace
- Location: Unit 4 Wessex Gate, Portsmouth Road, Waterlooville, PO8 9LP
- Solar system capacity: 52.8 kWp
- Estimated annual generation: 50,160 kWh
- Installation type: Rooftop solar panels
- Project timeline: Delivered 2026, from survey to commissioning
The objectives
- Reduce electricity costs and dependence on grid energy
- Improve environmental sustainability by reducing 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 conducted a comprehensive assessment of roof space, structural considerations, sun exposure, and interlocking constraints, ensuring optimal placement and system sizing to maximise energy production and long-term reliability. The system was designed with 80 x 660W Aiko panels, with power conversion handled by a 33kW SolarEdge inverter, integrating with the site’s existing electrical infrastructure for efficient energy management. DES Renewable Energy ensured compliance with building regulations, electrical standards, and industry best practices, and all necessary permits and approvals were obtained to guarantee a fully compliant and safe installation.
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. Comprehensive testing and commissioning verified the system’s performance, functionality, and safety. From initial assessment to completed commissioning, DES Renewable Energy provides a turnkey solution that ensures optimal energy generation, regulatory compliance, and sustainable operational savings.
The results
- Energy cost reduction: Lower electricity bills and reduced reliance on grid energy
- Environmental impact: An estimated 50,160 kWh of clean energy each year, saving an estimated 10.4 tonnes of CO2 annually and supporting sustainability goals
- Financial returns: Savings on energy costs contribute to long-term financial sustainability
- Public image: Demonstrates responsible energy practices to customers, staff and stakeholders
At a glance
- 80 x 660W Aiko panels
- 52.8 kWp total system capacity
- 33kW SolarEdge inverter
- An estimated 50,160 kWh of clean energy generated per year
- Reduced electricity costs and carbon footprint
Our accreditations
We are MCS certified, which guarantees that our installations have been designed, installed, and commissioned to the highest standard using only MCS certified products. We are also NAPIT certified, which confirms that we are certified to install and self-certify all of our electrical installations, and we comply with the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC).
Runs a business, club or community facility? See what solar could save you
If you run a business, club or community facility and want to see what solar could do for your energy bills, get your free bill check or explore commercial solar with DES Renewable Energy.
More recent commercial & community installations by DES
Take a look at more of our recent work, including the Wilson Group 65.5 kWp commercial solar and battery installation in Mitcham, the Nanaksar Gurdwara 25 kWp solar and battery installation in Southall, and the Peters & May 110 kWp commercial solar and EV charging installation in Hampshire.