The Problem
Across six sites, our client had operational solar PV and solar thermal systems installed, but like many organisations, ongoing maintenance had gradually become just another task on an already full facilities to-do list. There was limited visibility of system performance, no clear understanding of whether panels were generating at expected levels, and no structured monitoring in place to flag faults.
More importantly, none of the sites had compliant smart generation meters installed. Without a smart meter, systems are not eligible for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments, meaning exported electricity was not generating any income. At the same time, some solar thermal systems were showing signs of deterioration, including leaks and reduced efficiency, increasing the risk of system failure and higher reactive repair costs.
The Report
Carbon3 undertook a structured review of all six sites. The assessment confirmed that generation performance was not being actively tracked, servicing had not been carried out on a consistent annual basis, and export metering did not meet SEG requirements. Solar thermal systems required inspection and preventative maintenance to avoid escalation of leaks and pressure issues.
The Remedy
Carbon3 implemented a proactive annual servicing programme across all six locations, covering both solar PV and solar thermal systems. Each site received a compliant smart generation meter in year one, enabling the client to register for SEG and begin receiving payment for exported electricity.
Systems were cleaned, tested and optimised to restore performance levels, and all assets were connected to Carbon3’s monitoring platform. This provided real-time oversight of generation and automatic alerts when faults or performance drops occur, allowing rapid response before issues become prolonged or costly.
The Result
With smart metering in place, our client can now claim SEG payments, turning previously unpaid exports into a new income stream. Improved panel efficiency following servicing has increased on-site generation, reducing reliance on grid electricity and delivering additional bill savings.
Monitoring ensures that problems are identified immediately rather than months later, reducing downtime and protecting performance. Solar thermal systems are now maintained proactively, lowering the risk of leaks and extending asset life.
By removing the operational burden of solar maintenance and introducing structured servicing and monitoring, Carbon3 transformed ECG’s renewable systems into actively managed, income-generating assets that deliver measurable financial and environmental benefit.
If you have legacy solar PV or solar thermal that is not operating as expected, give us a call for a survey.
