Site title: Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust powers mental health services with clean energy
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Harvest Green Developments helped Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust install over 1MW of rooftop solar across multiple sites, generating 970,000 kWh/year and saving over £1.4 million over the system’s lifetime while cutting 200+ tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Lifetime savings: £1,400,000
Transforming the NHS estate through solar
When the Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP) decided to reduce its carbon footprint and energy costs, it faced a unique challenge. The Trust manages a vast estate across South West England, including hospitals, community resource centres, and administrative buildings. Serving over 1.8 million people, many sites operate 24/7, supporting vulnerable patients and requiring robust, uninterrupted infrastructure.
The Trust was committed to achieving NHS Net Zero Carbon targets while improving operational efficiency. Solar PV emerged as a viable solution, generating clean energy on site and providing long-term cost savings. However, the complexity of multiple sites, varied roof types, legacy electrical systems, and live healthcare environments meant that only a specialist partner could deliver such a programme safely and effectively.
Partnering with Harvest Green Developments
Harvest Green Developments in collaboration with CorEnergy Ltd and Dobbs & Bond, was selected to deliver one of the largest multi-site solar projects across the NHS in the South West. The portfolio included ten key sites, such as Callington Road Hospital, Blackberry Hill Hospital, Fountain Way, Green Lane Hospital, and multiple community resource centres.
Each location presented unique technical and operational challenges. Rooftops varied from modern flat surfaces to older structures, some with limited fire ratings and complex backup generator integration. The project demanded careful planning to ensure patient safety and uninterrupted operations while meeting the Trust’s sustainability and energy objectives.
Designing for safety and performance
From the outset, Harvest Green Developments focused on bespoke, site-specific design. Structural surveys and feasibility studies guided the layout of each solar array. Q.Cells modules, SolarEdge inverters, and K2 mounting systems were installed with precision, while optimisers enabled maximum energy efficiency.
Safety was central to the delivery approach. Temporary scaffolding, controlled access points, and segregated work zones allowed teams to work without disrupting healthcare operations. Staff training, comprehensive risk assessments, and collaboration with NHS Estates and Operations teams ensured that patient care and building security were never compromised.
Multi-site delivery and technical integration
The installation spanned from May 2021 to early 2022, with phased delivery to accommodate operational requirements. Harvest Green Developments modular and repeatable approach allowed consistent quality across all sites. Each system was integrated with existing electrical infrastructure and backup generators, while remote monitoring platforms provided real-time insights into energy generation, consumption, and system performance.
The project included over 3,000 solar modules, producing more than 970,000 kWh of clean electricity annually. With over 200 tonnes of CO₂ avoided each year, the portfolio contributed significantly to AWP’s sustainability goals. Operationally, the systems improved energy resilience and lowered electricity costs, delivering projected lifetime savings exceeding £1.4 million across the estate.
Operational benefits and long-term impact
By standardising designs and delivery processes, Harvest Green Developments ensured the systems could be replicated across other NHS or public sector estates. Remote monitoring and predictive maintenance reduce downtime and administrative overheads, while comprehensive O&M manuals and staff training empower NHS teams to manage the assets effectively.
The AWP Solar PV portfolio demonstrates how large organisations with multiple operational sites can achieve meaningful sustainability outcomes. For NHS trusts and similar sectors, the project highlights how careful planning, expert delivery, and robust technology integration can deliver measurable environmental, operational, and financial benefits.
Supporting sustainable public sector estates
Harvest Green Developments continues to work with NHS trusts, local authorities, and other large operational estates to deliver scalable renewable energy solutions. Whether it’s rooftop solar, battery storage, or hybrid systems, Harvest Green Developments provides end-to-end support – from feasibility and design to installation, monitoring, and maintenance – ensuring safety, compliance, and maximum efficiency.
For organisations managing complex, multi-site operations, the AWP portfolio offers a blueprint for decarbonisation, energy resilience, and cost savings. Harvest Green Developments helps turn sustainability commitments into impactful outcomes, supporting both operational performance and environmental responsibility across the public sector.
