A recent report by the Solar Trade Association outlined the opportunities available to local authorities for the development of successful solar projects, including excellent terms of borrowing, long project timescales and secure off-takers for the power generated. The new service provided by Dulas complements the advantages set out by the STA by analyzing the potential to offset local energy demand and reduce carbon emissions through the selection and appraisal of suitable locations for ground- and roof-mounted solar and other clean energy sources across a given area. It then draws on LiDAR satellite data to gather information on the height of objects including buildings and vegetation to generate highly detailed terrain models.
Significantly, this approach enables Dulas’ consultants to carry out the analysis remotely, saving time and costs associated with multiple site visits and assessing a large area with multiple buildings.
“By employing cutting-edge technologies such as LiDAR and GIS, and working in partnership with local authorities to understand their ambitions and objectives, we offer a sophisticated, reliable and cost-efficient means of assessing the potential for all forms of renewable energy – including solar – that is locked up in local authority land and infrastructure,” said Ruth Chapman, Head of Consultancy at Dulas.
In addition to local authorities, Dulas recently demonstrated and delivered the service on behalf of the University of Chester’s Faculty of Science and Engineering, assessing a 66-acre site to deliver an understanding of its potential for on-site integrated solar electricity generation and reduction of its carbon footprint. Following the incorporation of LiDAR data within its GIS modelling, Dulas was able to select suitable roof spaces and carport sites for solar arrays, accounting for orientation, slope and likely irradiance levels.
“The team at Dulas provided a robust and professional service in helping us to determine the best approach to meet our targets,” said Paul Vernon, Executive Director, Commercial Operations & CEO at Thornton Science Park at the University of Chester.
