Bilton Grange Preparatory School, Rugby

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Earle House Boarding – Solar PV Installation

Step Energy designed and delivered a roof-mounted Solar PV system for Bilton Grange Preparatory School’s new Earle House boarding facility in Rugby, supporting the School’s commitment to sustainability and educational enrichment.

The system features 59 Trina Solar Vertex S+ panels mounted using a Bauder mounting system, achieving a total capacity of 25.67 kWp. The southeast-facing installation is forecast to generate approximately 22,848 kWh per year, significantly offsetting the School’s energy demand and carbon footprint.

Advanced FoxESS inverter technology ensures high performance and reliable grid connection, supported by system monitoring for long-term operational efficiency.

Sustainability & Impact

This installation forms part of Bilton Grange’s wider drive to embed sustainability across its campus developments. By integrating solar generation into the new Earle House boarding house, the School demonstrates how renewable energy can sit seamlessly within sensitive, heritage-inspired architecture.

The Bauder roof system provides an ideal foundation for the PV array, combining waterproofing integrity with robust mounting performance. Its lightweight design and compatibility with solar installations minimise roof penetrations, extend roof life, and ensure long-term system resilience.

Outcomes & Benefits

Estimated annual generation: 22,848 kWh
CO₂ emissions avoided: 10,733 kg per year
Performance ratio: 84.54%
Yield reduction due to shading: just 5.8%

Wider Development Context

The Earle House project represents a milestone in Bilton Grange’s campus development – a modern, home-from-home facility accommodating 80 boarders aged 7–13.

Sustainability was embedded throughout the project, from material selection and waste reduction to community engagement and pupil participation in sustainability workshops. Step Energy’s contribution forms part of the School’s long-term ambition to reduce its environmental impact and inspire pupils through practical examples of renewable technology in action.

Project Features

  • 25.67 kWp Solar PV system using 59 Trina Solar Vertex S+ panels
  • Bauder mounting system ensuring roof integrity and solar compatibility
  • FoxESS inverter for efficient energy conversion and monitoring
  • Annual generation of 22,848 kWh, avoiding 10.7 tonnes of CO₂ each year
  • Integrated into Bilton Grange’s flagship Earle House boarding development