Case Study: Off-Grid Power System Upgrade at Bewick Bridge

Powerguard replaced an unreliable off‑grid system at Bewick Bridge with a solar‑driven, intelligently controlled solution, reducing diesel reliance and costs while restoring clean, quiet power.

Client: Harehope Farm
Property: Bewick Bridge (leased property on Harehope Estate)
Project Type: Off-Grid Renewable Energy System Upgrade
Date of Installation: June 2025

Project summary

Harehope Farm, the owners of Bewick Bridge, were facing escalating energy costs and reliability issues at this leased off‑grid property. The existing OutBack off‑grid power system had failed, leaving the cottage solely dependent on a diesel generator running 24/7. This drove extreme fuel usage, constant maintenance and an unsustainable carbon footprint.

Harehope Farm called on Powerguard to restore true energy independence and to do it quickly.

Powerful challenges

Before Powerguard arrived on site, Bewick Bridge faced a number of challenges that were driving costs and carbon sky‑high. These included:

• Non‑functional OutBack system: zero renewable input meant total dependency on fossil fuel.
• Diesel generator running full‑time: spiralling fuel bills and constant top‑ups.
• High maintenance load: breakdown risk rising with every engine hour.
• Rural noise pollution: generator rumble spoiling the estate’s tranquillity.
• Unsustainable footprint: emissions clashed with Harehope’s environmental values.

Powerful solutions

Powerguard delivered a fully integrated, future‑proof package that slashes diesel hours and puts solar in the driving seat. Let’s take a look:

• 12 × 460 W Solar Panels (5.52 kW): high‑efficiency modules mounted for optimal year‑round yield, handling daytime demand with ease.
• 18 kVA Backup Diesel Generator: a modern, low‑noise unit programmed to start only when solar and stored energy dip below threshold.
• PS15 kVA Control System: Victron‑based smart hub that prioritises renewables, balances loads and automates generator cycles for maximum fuel economy.

Powerful results

Early results highlight just how transformative the upgrade had been:

• 70 %+ reduction in diesel consumption: fuel orders cut from weekly to quarterly.
• Rock‑solid energy autonomy: lights stay on, fridge stays cold, no manual intervention.
• Noise and emissions down to a whisper: peace restored to the valley.
• Significant OPEX savings: system pays for itself in reduced fuel and maintenance.
• Sustainability aligned: estate carbon goals back on track.

Project recap

By combining high‑output solar, an intelligent control stack and a right‑sized backup generator, Powerguard turned a fuel‑hungry liability into a lean, fully independent power solution. Harehope Farm now enjoys dependable, low‑carbon electricity – rain or shine – and a system ready for future battery

Ready to future‑proof your power?

If your off‑grid site is being held back by diesel and downtime, let’s talk. Contact Powerguard to discover how quickly you can achieve energy independence, assurance, all while cutting fuel costs, noise and emissions.

Call us on 01507 600 688
Email sales@powerguard.co.uk

Or fill in the form below for a FREE quote…