7.2 kWp Solar Pergola with Battery Storage at Easterton Sands

At Easterton Sands in Wiltshire, DW Energy built a purpose-built solar pergola that has created a new shaded area in the garden while also generating electricity for the home.

The steel structure supports sixteen 450 W solar panels, forming a 7.2 kWp array. This was combined with 18.2 kWh of usable battery storage, a 6 kW inverter and a 7.3 kW EV charger.

Making better use of the garden

The idea behind the project was simple: if you want to create a new shady outdoor space, why not use it to support solar panels at the same time?

Rather than installing the panels on the main roof, they were fitted across a freestanding steel frame. This created a canopy over the open-sided space below, providing a shaded place to sit without taking up any additional garden space for the solar array.

Bringing solar, battery storage and EV charging together

Electricity generated by the 7.2 kWp array can be used around the home. When the panels generate more than is needed at the time, the surplus can be stored in the battery and used later in the day.

The EV charger was installed as part of the same system, allowing the car to make use of electricity generated on site too, and create a fully complementary home energy system.

The result is a garden structure that creates a useful outdoor space while playing an active role in how the home generates, stores and uses electricity.

Could a solar pergola work in your garden?

A solar pergola can provide an alternative or an addition to a conventional roof-mounted system. It may be particularly useful when a homeowner is already planning a new seating area, canopy or garden structure.

As with any residential solar panel installation, the design needs to suit the individual property - DW Energy can help you design the right solution for your needs, and available space. Get in touch to see how we can support your next project.