Case Study: Crowcon Detection Instruments, Oxfordshire

Crowcon Detection Instruments

295.48 kWp (664 panel) installation

A step closer to a greener future

Crowcon is known to be part of Britain’s most admired life-saving technological companies’ group, also known as the Halma group plc. The company is based in the town of Abington, Oxfordshire. They have created a solid reputation for innovative research and technological development. Crowcon focuses on gas detection and fire hazards, protecting over 25 million people annually, and prides itself on driving growth in sustainable energy markets.

Safeguarding lives, sustainably

Reducing environmental impact is a natural development of the organisation’s devotion to protecting lives through safety technology. Crowcon discovered that advancing to solar power not only supports its overall emission-reduction targets but also is a long-term investment in operational resilience and aligns with its sustainability standards, helping it strengthen its standing as a progressive innovator in the sector.

Crowcon considered Mypower as a potential partner after receiving a positive referral from a former client. After the initial conversation highlighted the team’s technical knowledge and assertive approach, it was clear that Mypower became the partner of choice.

The journey to renewable energy

Crowcon’s rental status presented a significant challenge; before installing solar, landlord approval was crucial. This added degree of complexity and involved collaboration with numerous stakeholders.

To ensure the proposed system met all structural and legal requirements, Mypower worked closely with surveyors to carry out preliminary assessments. The advantages of solar energy quickly became evident. Through ongoing collaboration with the landlord, they gained a clear understanding of the benefits solar could provide, helping the approval process move forward smoothly.

Throughout the entire process, Mypower communicated openly and consistently while proactively addressing any issues. This collaboration and solution-focused strategy ensured the project could transition smoothly into the installation stage.

Seeing the benefits

In Crowcon’s sustainability journey, this project becomes a significant milestone. Creating clean, renewable energy reflects Crowcon’s commitment not only to protecting lives through its products but also to responsible, sustainable operations. The system helps save 50.21 tonnes of CO2 emissions a year – the same as planting 2,306 trees.

With 664 panels expected to produce 259,890kWp of energy, the project ultimately secures the future of energy prices. By implementing this, Crowcon avoids energy cost spikes and gains greater independence from the grid.

With a successful collaboration with Mypower, the installation illustrates what can be produced through communication, collaboration,and a shared devotion to innovation.

Key facts and predictions

295.48 kWp (664 panels) installed.
259,640 kWh units of energy produced per annum.
£48,046 projected first year income and savings.
26.9% projected first year return on capital invested, before capital allowance benefits.
4.46p/kWh - the equivalent forward purchase price of 7.8 million units of electricity over 25 years including estimated operating & maintenance costs.
3.7 years - system payback before finance, tax and capital allowance and grant benefit.
£1,500,228 - a 25-year income and savings after indexation.
80% saving per unit from solar PV electricity compared to grid supplied electricity at 22p/kWh.
50.2 tonnes of CO2 emissions avoided per annum.

“Mypower were fantastic at guiding us through and making seem effortless what was a highly complex process involving a myriad of interested parties including insurance companies, business park landlords, sub-contractors and electrical companies. Tom at Mypower was a highly efficient project manager and great communicator and we at Crowcon are delighted with the outcome. This is a significant rung on the ladder to our sustainability end goals.”

Alan Mcaloon, Certification and Compliance Manager at Crowcon Detection Instruments.

“Crowcon saw the positive impact of a Mypower PV system from one of our past clients and was keen to speak with us about how we could help reduce their energy bills and meet their sustainability targets. It was a pleasure to work with Crowcon; the installation went smoothly thanks to the company’s and the landlord’s trust, commitment, and appreciation for our strategic approach”

Tom Sivil, Mypower's Project Manager