Low-Energy Commercial Projects: Solar, Storage, and Lighting

The Tech Behind Low-Energy Commercial Projects: Solar, Storage, and Lighting

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In this second blog on the technology behind low-energy commercial projects, I'll be exploring why solar PV, energy storage, EV charging systems, and LED lighting are crucial assets to any low-energy commercial building.

Solar PV systems

Solar PV systems harness sunlight to generate electricity, providing a clean and renewable energy source. Here's how they contribute to energy efficiency in commercial buildings:

Renewable energy generation: Solar PV systems generate electricity from the sun's rays, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly power source. By utilising solar energy, commercial buildings can reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

Cost savings: Solar PV systems can significantly reduce electricity costs for commercial buildings. With wholesale electricity prices having raised considerably over the last 12 months, by generating electricity on-site, businesses can offset a significant portion of their energy consumption from the grid. This leads to lower utility bills and long-term cost savings.

Peak demand management: Solar PV systems often produce the most electricity during peak daylight hours when energy demand is high. This aligns with commercial buildings' peak load periods, allowing them to reduce the amount of electricity drawn from the grid during costly peak demand periods.

Export metering: UK power companies offer export metering programs, allowing commercial buildings with solar PV systems to export excess electricity back to the grid and get paid for what they don’t use. This results in further reduced energy costs.

Environmental benefits: Solar PV systems significantly reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact by generating clean electricity. By adopting solar power, commercial buildings can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and contribute to a greener future.

Rapid change in the UK is starting to occur with solar panel installations doubling in the last 12 months compared to the year before. Companies and individuals are waking up to the environmental and financial benefits of free solar energy as well as working out how to better manage it on site to really reduce net usage and increase company profit margins.

Energy storage

Battery systems store excess electricity generated by solar PV systems during the day for later use. This stored energy can be utilised during periods of low solar generation or during peak demand times, maximising self-consumption and reducing reliance on the grid.

Load shifting: Battery systems allow commercial buildings to shift energy consumption to off-peak hours, when electricity rates are lower. By discharging stored energy during high- demand periods, businesses can avoid expensive peak demand charges and further optimise their energy usage.

Backup power: In the event of a grid outage or power failure, battery systems can provide backup power to critical loads. This ensures uninterrupted operations for businesses that rely on continuous power supply, such as data centres, healthcare facilities, or emergency services.

Grid support and resilience: Battery systems can contribute to grid stability and resilience by providing services like frequency regulation and peak shaving. Commercial buildings can participate in demand response programs or sell excess stored energy back to the grid, potentially earning revenue and supporting the overall stability of the electrical grid.

Energy independence: By combining solar PV and battery systems, commercial buildings can enhance their energy independence. They can generate and store their own clean energy, reducing reliance on the grid and providing a level of energy security and control over electricity costs.

Electric vehicle (EV) charging systems

With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, commercial buildings are incorporating EV charging infrastructure to support employees, visitors, and customers who own electric vehicles. Energy-efficient EV charging systems focus on optimising the charging process and reducing overall energy consumption. Some key features include:

Smart charging: EV charging systems can be equipped with smart charging capabilities that allow for load management, optimising charging schedules based on energy demand and grid availability. This helps balance the power load and reduce peak demand charges.

Energy metering and monitoring: EV charging systems often include energy metering and monitoring features, providing data on electricity consumption. This enables building managers to track energy usage, analyse patterns, and implement energy-saving measures.

Renewable energy integration: Integrating EV charging stations with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, allows for the utilisation of clean and sustainable energy for charging electric vehicles, reducing dependence on the grid and minimising environmental impact.

LED lighting

LED (Light-Emitting Diode) lighting technology has revolutionised energy-efficient lighting in commercial buildings. Compared to traditional incandescent or fluorescent lighting, LED lighting offers several benefits, including:

Energy efficiency: LEDs are highly energy-efficient, consuming significantly less electricity than conventional lighting options. They convert a higher percentage of electrical energy into visible light, resulting in reduced energy consumption and lower electricity bills.

Long lifespan: LED lights have an extended operational lifespan compared to traditional lighting sources. This reduces the frequency of bulb replacements, saving maintenance costs and reducing waste.

Directional lighting: LEDs emit light in specific directions, allowing for more focused illumination and reducing light wastage. This targeted lighting minimises the need for additional fixtures and enhances energy efficiency.

Dimming and control: LED lights can be easily dimmed and controlled, enabling precise adjustment of lighting levels based on occupancy, daylight availability, and specific needs. This flexibility helps optimise energy usage and enhances user comfort.

Instant on/off: LEDs provide instant illumination without warm-up time, allowing for immediate response to lighting demands and avoiding energy waste caused by lights being left on unnecessarily.

Environmental benefits: LED lighting is free from toxic materials like mercury, making them more environmentally friendly. Additionally, their long lifespan and energy efficiency contribute to reduced carbon emissions and overall sustainability.

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Our Christmas Message

by Doug Johnson • 9 December 2025

As the year draws to a close, the Mesh team has been out in the community helping to spread some much-needed festive cheer. From fundraising in Santa suits, food donations for local families and donating warm clothing for those who need it most, the team has embraced the spirit of giving in the run-up to Christmas. Running for a Cause: The Guildford Santa Fun Run Despite the wet weather, members of the Mesh team braved the elements for the Guildford Santa Fun Run, raising money for the children’s charity, Challengers. Joined by Jacqueline Smith from our client TALO, Mesh’s Founder and Director Doug Johnson, along with Maria Fiore and Ilianna Filippopoulou, completed the festive run in full Santa attire. The team also reached their fundraising target, helping Challengers continue its exceptional work in supporting disabled children and young people in the community. Supporting Local Families in Need through the Lions Christmas Food Parcel Appeal For another year, Mesh proudly supported the Lions’ Christmas Food Parcel Appeal, helping to provide food parcels to individuals and families in need over the festive period. Thanks to the generosity of the Mesh team and many local businesses and residents, a huge selection of donated goods is now being sorted and delivered by the incredible volunteers at Lions Farnham. This annual initiative continues to be a meaningful way for us to support vulnerable members of our local community during what can be a really challenging time of year. The Coats for All Initiative Mesh has also taken part in the Coats for All initiative, a brilliant scheme that distributes warm, good-quality coats to anyone who needs one. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, and partners who donated pre-loved coats in excellent condition, we are helping to ensure that more people can stay warm this winter. Many local libraries are acting as collection points, making this a simple but impactful way for people to support others in the colder months — and we are proud to play our part. According to Mesh Founder and Director, Doug Johnson: “Community sits at the heart of Mesh, and it’s been inspiring to see our team give their time, energy and generosity to support such worthwhile causes - not just this Christmas but throughout the year. Whether running through the rain, collecting food, or fundraising for local charities, everyone has contributed to making a real difference — and I couldn’t be prouder.” At Mesh, we believe that small acts of kindness create meaningful impact. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, participated, or volunteered this year. We look forward to continuing our community support into 2026 and beyond."

Bringing Some Festive Cheer to Our Community This Christmas

9 December 2025

As the year draws to a close, the Mesh team has been out in the community helping to spread some much-needed festive cheer. From fundraising in Santa suits, food donations for local families and donating warm clothing for those who need it most, the team has embraced the spirit of giving in the run-up to Christmas. Running for a Cause: The Guildford Santa Fun Run Despite the wet weather, members of the Mesh team braved the elements for the Guildford Santa Fun Run, raising money for the children’s charity, Challengers. Joined by Jacqueline Smith from our client TALO, Mesh’s Founder and Director Doug Johnson, along with Maria Fiore and Ilianna Filippopoulou, completed the festive run in full Santa attire. The team also reached their fundraising target, helping Challengers continue its exceptional work in supporting disabled children and young people in the community. Supporting Local Families in Need through the Lions Christmas Food Parcel Appeal For another year, Mesh proudly supported the Lions’ Christmas Food Parcel Appeal, helping to provide food parcels to individuals and families in need over the festive period. Thanks to the generosity of the Mesh team and many local businesses and residents, a huge selection of donated goods is now being sorted and delivered by the incredible volunteers at Lions Farnham. This annual initiative continues to be a meaningful way for us to support vulnerable members of our local community during what can be a challenging time of year. The Coats for All Initiative Mesh has also taken part in the Coats for All initiative, a brilliant scheme that distributes warm, good-quality coats to anyone who needs one. Through the generosity of colleagues, friends, and partners who donated pre-loved coats in excellent condition, we are helping ensure that more people can stay warm this winter. Many local libraries are acting as collection points, making this a simple but impactful way for people to support others in the colder months — and we are proud to play our part. According to Mesh Founder and Director, Doug Johnson: “Community sits at the heart of Mesh, and it’s been inspiring to see our team give their time, energy and generosity to support such worthwhile causes - not just this Christmas but throughout the year. Whether running through the rain, collecting food, or fundraising for local charities, everyone has contributed to making a real difference — and I couldn’t be prouder.” At Mesh, we believe that small acts of kindness create meaningful impact. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, participated, or volunteered this year. We look forward to continuing our community support into 2026 and beyond."

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Volunteering in the Surrey Hills

5 November 2025

Members of the Mesh team joined a local charity to help with a tree planting project on the Hampton Estate. This was organised by the Surrey Hills Society, an independent charity who do some great work to encourage people to spend time in the beautiful Surrey landscape. According to Mesh Director Doug Johnson: "We are always looking for volunteering ideas and this charity's work fits so well with our sustainability values. This was our second volunteering day this year. It is very much part of our ethos and culture to make a difference to our environment. These events are also a fantastic opportunity to bring our team together. Thank you to the Surrey Hills Society for a really good day in the autumn sunshine. It’s just so good for the soul!" Five members of the Mesh team joined the day – travelling from Worthing, Bristol and as far as Exeter to help out.