Flat Roof Solar PV for Planning Compliance – Sheffield Orchard Case Study.
McConnells Green recently installed a 4kW flat-roof solar PV system on a new-build block of flats at Sheffield Orchard, South Yorkshire, to meet a planning condition requiring 10% of the building’s energy to come from renewable sources. Using JA Solar 500W panels and a Van Der Valk ballasted mounting system, the installation is predicted to deliver 3,212kWh annually, offset over 720kg of CO₂, and provides an estimated benefit of £646 per year — all for under £5,000.
Meeting Planning Conditions with Low Carbon Solar
McConnells Green recently completed the design and installation of a 4kW flat-roof solar PV system at Sheffield Orchard — a new residential development in the city centre. The installation was delivered to meet a planning condition requiring at least 10% of the development’s predicted energy use to be generated by decentralised renewable energy.
This is a common planning requirement for developments across the UK, especially in cities like Sheffield and Nottingham, where local authorities prioritise low-carbon construction.
Extract from the planning condition:
“No development shall commence until a report has been submitted… identifying how a minimum of 10% of the predicted energy needs of the completed development will be obtained from decentralised and renewable or low carbon energy…”
By installing rooftop solar panels, the developer met these requirements efficiently and affordably — avoiding delays and ensuring planning compliance.
System Design and Technical Details
- Solar PV Modules:
8 x 500W JA Solar Panels
- Mounting:
Van Der Valk Flat-roof ballast system
- Orientation:
30 degrees from South
- Tilt angle/pitch:
10 degrees from horizontal
- Solar Region:
S11 (Sheffield)
Performance & Carbon Savings
- Predicted output:
3,212 kWh per year
- System yield:
803 kWh/kWp
- Annual CO₂ offset:
723 kg
- Estimated benefit:
£646 per year
- Installed cost:
£4,989
Why Choose Ballasted Solar for Flat Roofs
Flat roof systems are ideal for residential blocks. Using the Van Der Valk ballasted mounting system, we avoided any roof penetrations — protecting waterproof membranes while ensuring long-term stability. The 10° tilt allows for efficient solar generation without wind loading concerns.
Planning-Driven Solar for Developers
Whether you’re working on a single dwelling or a large residential block, we can help you meet local planning conditions and carbon targets. We provide full documentation, compliance reporting, and professional installation.
Talk to Us About Solar for Planning.
Contact usNeed to meet a 10% renewable energy condition in Sheffield or elsewhere?
We’re already working with developers, architects and planners across South Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire and the East Midlands.