Project Overview
Implementation
Sensitive and sympathetic system design lessened the impact of the modern energy equipment on the fabric of the building. All changes to the buildings had to be approved by National Trust committees in addition to obtaining the necessary planning permissions for this grade 1 listed building. Information is presented both to the site warden and to visitors to the site about the power being generated from the various sources and consumption around the site. In addition, a “fuel gauge” provides continuous feedback about the amount of energy availability from the battery bank. This detailed feedback enables the site warden to manage the various energy demands in response to the available hydro and solar energy and the visitor schedule for the days ahead.
Gibson Mill is a unique building. Its size, function and lack of connection to the National Grid all added to the complexity in making the site work efficiently on renewable energy. Dulas’ expert knowledge and years of experience were significant in the transformation of this site into a focal point for groups looking to do similar projects. The renewable energy schemes will help pull hundreds of extra visitors into this area, every year.
Conclusions
The multi award winning flagship project for the National Trust is now 100% self-sufficient in renewable energy.
| Technical Overview | |
|---|---|
| Intake Structure | Drop Bar side intake |
| Pipeline | Leat to Mill pond |
| Head | 16ft |
| Powerhouse | Original Mill Building |
| Turbine | 1929 Gilkes wallplate |
| Generator | 15kVA, single phase, 1500rpm |
| Tailrace and Outfall | Original stone calvert |
| Solar PV | 4.32kWp |
| Battery | 2300 Ah |
