Renewable energy feasibility studies
Feasibility studies help to provide certainty to an investment, build a business case, de-risk a project’s development, and ensure that the solution is truly fit for purpose to deliver a long lasting solution to future proof your business. Our structured, yet flexible approach allows us to work with businesses to provide feasibility reports covering system designs, project cashflows, funding routes, grid and planning assessments, engineering surveys, bankable generation modelling, and more.
renewable generation ▪ de-risk ▪ business case
Renewable energy feasibility studies
Feasibility studies help to provide certainty to an investment, build a business case, de-risk a project’s development, and ensure that the solution is truly fit for purpose to deliver a long lasting solution to future proof your business. Our approach allows us to work with businesses to provide feasibility reports covering system design, project cashflows, funding routes, grid and planning assessments, engineering surveys, bankable generation modelling, and more.
generation ▪ de-risk ▪ business case
What is a feasibility study?
A feasibility study provides a consultative approach to finding the optimal solution for a business, as well as ensuring that a project is construction ready. Ennovus deliver feasibility studies through a structured process, with the exact scope of each stage depending on the client requirements and project type. Our three core areas cover scoping & options, feasibility reports, and permits & permissions, culminating in a ‘ready-to-build’ asset. Please speak to our friendly team to discuss how our feasibility studies can support your project development.
Feasibility for solar energy
A business may choose to de-risk their roof mounted solar PV project by completing some feasibility work and pre-installation surveys. This could include budget or formal grid applications, prior approval planning, structural surveys, roof condition surveys, and finalising the system design. By completing the pre-installation work ahead of an exchange of contract for the installation, it ensures that the system can be installed with confidence and minimal to no variation.
Ground mounted systems are more complex, due to the required additional engineering and planning surveys. The full planning process for a ground mounted system can take 12 months+ and as such it is typically recommended to complete a feasibility study for the grounded mounted solar system and have the planning permission in place before moving to the implementation phase.
Wind feasibility study
Wind turbine projects can benefit hugely from conducting a wind feasibility study. A key part of the wind feasibility study is accurately modelling the annual energy generation as this will heavily influence the business case. The generation modelling includes assessing the average wind speeds at the turbine height, determining the maximum gusts for turbine class selection, modelling the impact of the terrain on the air flow, and selecting the optimal position on the site for maximum generation.
Alongside the performance modelling, grid connection offers and planning permission can be big hurdles to overcome during the wind turbine development. During a wind feasibility study, grid and planning permissions can be assessed through early-stage reviews, budgetary or pre-application submissions to the DNO (distribution network operator) or LPA (local planning authority), and by preparing and submitting the full applications.
How does it work?
Our standard process follows four key stages from initial engagement through to implementation. Each stage helps to bring further confidence to the development of the project as well as de-risking the implementation phase.
01
Free desktop proposal
We will assess your site(s) from an initial desktop study to provide a snapshot of the renewable generation potential. For each system we will provide key metrics, such as annual generation, indicative costs, payback period, and grid independence, such that preferred renewable generation system can be selected via an informed decision.
02
Feasibility report
Our feasibility studies cover engineering design, performance modelling, financial analysis and cashflows, specialist surveys, and engagement with the DNO and LPA to determine the planning and grid viability. The exact scope can be tailored to our client’s requirements and budget, as well as the complexity of the technologies.
03
Permits & permission
To fully de-risk the project the necessary permits and permissions need to be gained before moving to construction. This can include the preparation and submission of the formal grid application and full planning application, as well as structural sign-off, utility easement agreements, and building insurance compliance.
04
Implementation
Following the completion of the feasibility study and gaining the necessary permits & permissions, the project can be considered as fully de-risked. This allows the project to move forward to the implementation phase, knowing that the specified system can be installed with minimal to no variation in the cost, timelines, and scope.
The benefits of renewable energy feasibility studies
Not sure why a feasibility study is the right approach for your business? Check out some of the benefits of renewable energy feasibility studies below or get in touch with our team to discuss your options.
Provide certainty before investment
Bring added peace of mind to your long-term renewable energy investment by knowing the solution is commercially and technically viable.
Find the optimal solution
Exploring all renewable energy options for your site through a scoping & options report before narrowing down on your perfect solution.
Build a robust business case
Detailed performance and financial modelling will enable the implementation proposal to be taken to your board with confidence.
The importance of feasibility studies
Commercial wind turbines are notoriously more difficult to install than solar panels and as such it is strongly recommended that feasibility studies and pre-installation work is conducted to significantly de-risk the project and give confidence to all stakeholders.
Feasibility studies will answer key questions such as ‘how much does a commercial wind turbine cost’, will develop a technically and commercially robust solution for your business, and ensure that all permits and permissions are in place.
Without a feasibility study, there are many project risks and unknowns that could adversely impact the scope, cost, and timescales of a project, in some cases, stopping the project completely.
Why choose Ennovus Solutions?
As your strategic renewable energy partner, we’re here to support your business throughout your carbon reduction journey. Whether you’re looking to reduce costs, become more sustainable or gain more energy independence, our team are by your side every step of the way.
Care and personalisation
We take time to understand the needs of each individual site and design the best solution for each of our customers.
Supporting you on your journey
We offer a high level of support before, during and after installation. We’re here as a long-term partner, not just an installer.
Giving you peace of mind
We give customers peace of mind that they’re getting the best quality, ethical products when they choose us for renewable energy solutions.
Complimentary services
Our complimentary technologies and services for feasibility studies are the ideal follow on to this service.
Got a question about renewable energy feasibility studies for businesses?
Check out our FAQs below, or reach out to one of our friendly team for more information.
What is a feasibility study?
A feasibility study helps to shape and define a project to remove unknowns or uncertainties before moving to implementation. Feasibility studies are a great way to build project confidence.
What is covered in a feasibility study?
Feasibility studies can cover everything from initial scoping, through to detailed design and gaining the relevant permits and permissions. Our expert team will be on hand to support you throughout the development of your feasibility study, advising on the next steps and confidently moving the project through to being construction ready.
How long does a feasibility study take?
Our initial feasibility studies typically take ~ 8 weeks. More detailed feasibility studies, which require specialist surveys or application to the local planning authority and distribution network operator can take anywhere from 3-12+ months.
News and guides
Check out our latest renewable energy news, blogs and guides below:
