Project scope
RSK Renewables, on behalf of Scottish Water, successfully completed a £675,000 solar energy project at its wastewater treatment works in Bathgate, marking a significant step in its commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2040. The installation included 792 ballasted ground-mounted PV panels, which are expected to generate 0.3GWh of green energy annually. This project is part of Scottish Water’s ongoing efforts to expand its portfolio of renewable energy initiatives and reduce its environmental impact, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Drone footage of Bathgate PV Solar installation
Impact and challenges
Given the live operational status of the Bathgate site for Scottish Water, RSK Renewables worked closely with the local operations team to coordinate the MCC shutdowns required for the initial survey and the final connection. This was carefully planned to minimize disruption. During the design phase, RSK Renewables ensured smooth scheduling of contractors, including the DNO, to streamline the process and reduce operational impact.
To ensure seamless integration, Fronius 50kW inverters were selected to optimise energy conversion efficiency. However, due to grid connection constraints, a tailored inverter solution was required to meet site-specific requirements. RSK Renewables collaborated with B-Gen, the original manufacturer of the site’s MCC, to develop a bespoke extension capable of supporting the new PV system, ensuring compatibility and reliability.