Manchester Viadux
28kW System
54 Panels
25kW Inverters
5.6t CO2 Saved Per Year
We were approached to design and install a 28kWp ballasted solar PV array atop the prestigious Viadux development in central Manchester. The Viadux building, located on Great Bridgewater street is a 40 storey, luxury residential development, strategically connected to the Manchester Central tram station. We provided a turn-key solution, comprising concept design, detailed system design, electrical installation and commissioning.
The 28kWp system constituted 54 tier 1 Longi 530W modules connected via 4 DC isolators to a Solis 25kW inverter and was designed to maximise performance using an east / west ballasted mounting system. The installation is connected into an isolator at roof level with a subsequent connection to a distribution board on the 39th floor riser. The project benefits from Solis’s cloud-based monitoring system via a GPRS data logger, allowing the client to display generation data from the system.
The scheme was particularly complex due to the height of the building, at 40 storeys, and the associated wind loads experienced at that height. Due to this, we utilised a bespoke Sunfixings panel claw ballasted mounting system that required extensive dialogue with the module manufacturer and a bespoke fixing methodology in order to maintain appropriate warranties. The congested nature of plant on the roof required an innovative approach to the array layout.
The system was completed during the build phase of the building, requiring us to work closely and collaboratively with a variety of other contractors and disciplines on site. The installation duration was two weeks, with commissioning documentation and handover certification provided on the final day of the installation.