Naked Energy, a solar tech company from West Sussex, has been chosen to deliver a large solar installation at the British Library, which holds over 170 million items.
Covering 712.5 square meters with 950 solar collectors, this project will be the largest solar heat installation in the UK, supporting the library’s shift to renewable energy.
Once operational, the system is expected to cut the library’s carbon emissions by 55 tonnes a year and generate 216 MWh of energy—enough to power and heat a community center or swimming pool for a year.
Jon Benford, managing director at CBRE GWS, which commissioned the project alongside the library, said: "Working towards net zero emissions in a Grade 1 listed English Heritage building comes with its own unique challenges, and we’re proud of the role this project will play in both preserving the past and protecting the future."
Christophe Williams, CEO of Naked Energy, shared his excitement about working with the British Library. "It’s an honour to partner with such an iconic British institution and be a part of their journey to meet their net zero goals.
"The urgent need to decarbonise heat has long been under-recognised in the discussions over the UK’s move toward net zero. We hope that this project can serve as a catalyst to inspire others in the public sector to join the energy transition and move away from fossil fuels once and for all.
"This project has been an immense undertaking and is an exciting step forward for the solar thermal industry in the UK."
Naked Energy’s Virtu products, which can save up to four times more carbon than traditional solar PV panels, are designed to help decarbonise heat in various industries, from manufacturing to hospitality.
At the British Library, the solar collectors will also help regulate temperature and humidity to preserve the collection, adding a unique use of solar technology to the project.
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