Feasibility and Design of a Rooftop Photovoltaic System: A Case Study of Newcastle College Energy Academy, North East England, UK
Posters in Parliament 2026
Feasibility and Design of a Rooftop Photovoltaic System: A Case Study of Newcastle College Energy Academy, North East England, UK
Dylan Bingham, Elizabeth Morgan, and Mardin Abdalqadir
Abstract
The decarbonisation of educational buildings is a key priority in achieving the UK’s net-zero carbon targets, with rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems offering a practical pathway for on-site renewable energy generation. This study presents a detailed feasibility assessment and system design for a rooftop PV installation at Newcastle College Energy Academy in North East England, UK, providing a site-specific case study tailored to real-world conditions.
Unlike many PV feasibility studies that rely on generic assumptions, this research incorporates location-specific solar irradiance, temperature, shading, and roof geometry data. Annual energy yield is modelled using SolarEdge Designer, while Google Earth Pro and on-site drone inspections are used to assess roof pitch, orientation, usable area, and obstructions. AutoCAD is employed to develop electrical schematics, stringing layouts, and elevation drawings. Voltage drop calculations inform cable sizing, and inverter and component selection are integrated into the final system design in accordance with relevant technical standards.
The results indicate that the Energy Academy has significant potential for on-site electricity generation, enabling reductions in grid dependency and associated carbon emissions. In addition to environmental benefits, the proposed PV system offers educational value by supporting practical, real-world learning for Energy Engineering students. This case study demonstrates how robust, simulation-based PV design can support informed investment decisions and contribute to decarbonisation objectives within further education institutions across the UK.
Research Explanation
Harnessing rooftop solar potential is an important part of the UK's pathway to net zero goals. Many schools and hospitals have successfully installed solar PV systems and are already reaping the benefits. Rooftop solar panels can cut carbon emissions drastically and reduce energy costs. However, there is very little research that focuses on energy engineering colleges, and this research addresses that gap. On site generation is essential for these institutions as they consume significant energy and systems offer educational insights for students.
This study investigates the design and feasibility of a rooftop PV system for Newcastle College Energy Academy, Wallsend. The system is tailored to the building's conditions, and the research uses location specific data, such as irradiance levels, weather conditions, roof angles, shading and temperature. The study uses information from tools such as SolarEdge Designer, Google Earth Pro, drone imagery and AutoCAD to model energy generation, produce drawings and assess the roof type/layout. Cable sizing, inverter selection and system configuration adhere to technical standards and ensure that the design is safe and follows legislation.
The results confirm that the Energy Academy has a strong potential for a rooftop PV system for onsite energy generation, with a south facing roof, reducing carbon emissions and reliance on the grid. By focusing on a further education energy engineering college - which is often overlooked - the project shows how site-specific PV design can contribute to national decarbonisation ambitions, improve self-sufficiency and move towards a greener future.