Case Study: Off-Grid Solar Power System Installation at Shepherds Law Hermitage

Powerguard delivered a bespoke off-grid solar and generator hybrid system to provide reliable, sustainable energy for Shepherds Law Hermitage in Northumberland.

Client: Shepherds Law Hermitage
Location: Northumberland
Service Provided: Off-Grid Solar & Generator Hybrid Energy System

Project overview: complete off-grid energy transformation

Shepherds Law Hermitage is a unique completely off-grid property in Northumberland. The site has been upgraded and expanded to include:

• A private chapel
• Four self-contained living and sleeping quarters
• A main kitchen and living area
• The reinstatement of a library

This remarkable property required a reliable and sustainable energy solution to support its growing facilities. However, its outdated off-grid system had failed, forcing reliance on a diesel generator running 24/7 – costly, noisy and unsustainable.

Our mission was to design and install a modern off-grid hybrid solar power system that could provide reliable energy across the entire property while reducing fuel costs and environmental impact.

The challenge: powering an expanded off-grid property

Before our installation, Shepherds Law Hermitage faced:

• Non-functional off-grid system providing no renewable power
• Full-time diesel generator dependency with spiralling fuel costs
• Constant noise disrupting the peaceful retreat setting
• High generator wear and maintenance demand
• Large carbon footprint, at odds with the property’s sustainable ethos

The solution: bespoke Hybrid Off-Grid Solar

We delivered a 20 kVA off-grid hybrid energy system with solar, batteries, generator backup and intelligent controls.

28 x 450W Solar Panels (Total: 12.6 kW)

• High-output solar PV array generating clean energy for the entire estate
• Supplies power across all buildings, significantly reducing diesel reliance

930Ah Battery Bank

• Stores excess solar energy for use at night and during cloudy periods
• Provides reliable, uninterrupted power supply across multiple facilities

25kVA Backup Diesel Generator

• Efficient, low-noise backup generator
• Configured for minimal use, only when solar and battery power is insufficient

20 kVA Smart Control System

• Automated management of solar, generator and battery input
• Prioritises renewable energy and maximises efficiency
• Provides flexibility for future system expansion

The results: sustainable energy for a multi-building estate

• Over 70% reduction in fuel costs compared to generator-only operation
• Stable, reliable electricity supply for chapel, accommodation, kitchen and library
• Much quieter environment enhancing the retreat’s peaceful atmosphere
• Significant reduction in carbon emissions
• Lower running and maintenance costs

Why Hybrid Off-Grid Systems are ideal for expanding properties

Off-grid properties with multiple buildings and facilities require more than just a generator. By combining solar PV, battery storage and generator backup, hybrid systems provide:

• Clean renewable power across all areas of a property
• Cost-effective and reliable supply, even during peak demand
• Long-term sustainability with reduced fuel dependency
• Peace and quiet, with minimal generator noise

Need an Off-Grid Solar Power System for your property?

If you’re managing a farm, estate, retreat or rural property, our hybrid off-grid solar solutions can deliver the independence and reliability you need.

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

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