The Ilac Centre is a prominent shopping center located in the heart of Dublin, Ireland. With its central location, diverse retail offerings, and vibrant atmosphere, the Ilac Centre has become a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The centre features a wide range of stores, including fashion retailers, electronics, beauty salons, bookshops, and dining establishments, providing a comprehensive shopping experience for visitors. The Ilac Centre aims to create a welcoming and enjoyable environment for shoppers, offering convenience, quality products, and exceptional customer service.

Street view of Ilac Shopping Centre
Aerial view of retail solar panels installed on rooftop at Ilac Shopping Centre by MarVal Power

Project Details

The Ilac Centre Solar PV Project was a collaborative effort between the Ilac Centre team and MarVal Power, aimed at installing a 100 kWp rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The project was successfully completed in September 2022.

The solar PV system utilised the available rooftop space of the Ilac Centre to generate renewable energy.

In terms of the design and planning phase, MarVal Power worked closely with the Ilac Centre team, to produce technical drawings that would inform optimal system design. Factors such as roof space, orientation, shading, and system efficiency were considered during this phase to ensure maximum energy production.

MarVal Power provided a full turnkey service for the Ilac Centre Solar PV Project. This comprehensive service included feasibility studies, system design, equipment procurement, installation, grid connection, monitoring, and maintenance.

The installation process was meticulously executed, taking approximately three working weeks to complete. Despite the active operations of the Ilac Centre, there were no interruptions to its daily activities, ensuring a seamless transition to solar energy.

Sustainability Initiatives

The Ilac Centre is committed to environmental sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices.

Some of their key sustainability initiatives include:

Energy Efficiency

The Ilac Centre continuously strives to improve its energy efficiency by investing in energy-efficient lighting systems, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) upgrades, and other energy-saving technologies. These measures help reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact.

The Ilac Centre recognises the importance of sustainability in preserving the environment for future generations. By implementing the initiative above and many others, they are focused on minimising their ecological impact, creating a more sustainable shopping experience, and inspiring others to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

Overhead view of commercial solar PV panels
Rooftop view of MarVal Power technician inspecting the solar PV panel installation

Project Benefits

Energy Contribution

The system is designed to provide the Ilac Centre with approximately 87,899 kWh of electricity annually. This substantial energy generation contributes significantly to the centre’s power needs.

Energy Offset

The solar PV system is expected to offset 10% of the Ilac Centre’s overall energy consumption, making a significant environmental impact by reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

Energy Utilisation

The Ilac Centre successfully utilised 100% of the energy generated by the solar PV system. This efficient utilisation of renewable energy showcases the commitment to sustainability and reducing the centre’s carbon footprint.

Cost-Effective Energy

With a levelised rate of €0.03c per kWh, the Ilac Centre benefits from an economically favourable solar energy rate. This competitive pricing structure ensures long-term cost savings, making renewable energy an economically viable choice.

Environmental Impact

The Ilac Centre Solar PV Project is significantly reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact by utilising clean and renewable solar energy.

Energy Cost Savings

The solar PV system offers the Ilac Centre an opportunity to save on energy costs through a levelized rate of €0.03c per kWh, providing financial benefits over the system’s lifespan.

Sustainability Leadership

By adopting solar energy, the Ilac Centre demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and renewable energy adoption, setting an example for other businesses and communities.

Educational and Public Relations Value

The project serves as an educational tool and showcases the Ilac Centre’s dedication to sustainable practices, enhancing its public image and fostering positive community relations.

Summary

The Ilac Centre Solar PV Project, in collaboration with MarVal Power, successfully installed a 100 kWp rooftop solar PV system, contributing 10% of the center’s energy consumption. This undertaking has resulted in substantial energy generation, cost savings, and a positive environmental impact. By embracing solar energy, the Ilac Centre showcases its commitment to sustainability and sets an example for others to follow, paving the way for a greener future.