Written by: John Lawler
2024
Royal Portrush invested in two separate Solar PV installation projects. The first and largest of these is on the greenkeepers' sheds. This installation is providing sufficient solar generated electricity to power the entire greenkeeping sheds operation during the months of May - September. This reduces all grid requirements for the majority of the working day.
Furthermore, final work is being completed to install batteries that will gather excess electricity generated during the day. This will be stored for use during the night when the irrigation pumps are switched on and run watering programmes to ensure the health of the turf. A second Solar PV installation has been introduced to the roof of the clubhouse at the Club. The modest installation is situated in the recessed areas of the clubhouse roof and can assist in reducing the Club's requirements for grid electricity.
Further areas for potential Solar PV installations are being reviewed and it is hoped that the Club can continue to grow its use of Solar PV. The Club is also part of a small Solar Thermal trial that is currently providing all hot water for use in the greenkeeping sheds.
Overall, the initiative has helped and plans to continue helping the club reduce its Scope 2 carbon footprint, yielding substantial cost savings that can be reinvested elsewhere.
