Energy Project Case Study:
WestWerks
Co-working space
Hove
Summary
BHESCo were engaged by The Werks Group to improve the energy efficiency of this co-working space in Hove, in addition to analysing the property’s suitability for solar power.
BHESCo designed and project managed the installation of a solar power array, energy-saving lighting throughout, and a new heating system.
The project was developed with no upfront cost to the Werks Group. All capital costs were provided by BHESCo’s network of community investors through our ‘Pay As You Save’ financing.
Technology installed
- 4kW solar PV
- SolarEdge three-phase inverter
- 67 x LED lamps of various sizes/ types
- Valient EcoTec condensing boiler
Site description
West Werks is a co-working office space located in Hove, situated in two adjacent Victorian buildings on a busy thoroughfare. The building is occupied by businesses during the day, and the south-facing roof provides excellent solar exposure, making it an ideal location for a photovoltaic (PV) system.
Heating had been provided by antiquated electrical storage heaters. There are many people using the building during the day, which means that heat is lost through the opening and closing of the front door.
Project development
BHESCo had partnered with The Werks Group on decarbonisation projects for several other co-working sites, and were engaged to improve the energy performance of West Werks.
Following a detailed survey of the premises and an analysis of the building’s historic energy bills, BHESCo’s Project Team recommended a suite of upgrades, which included rooftop solar PV, energy saving LED lighting throughout, and replacement of the old heating system with a modern, highly efficient alternative.
In Spring 2016, BHESCo project managed the installation of a 4kW solar PV system and SolarEdge inverter bylocal electrician AJ Taylor, in addition to 67 LED lamps installed by lighting specialist Lightfoot LED.
Project finance
The total project cost of £14,592 was met through BHESCo’s ‘Pay As You Save’ financing.
Our network of community investors provided the upfront capital costs, in return for an annual 5% interest payment.
The Werks Group entered into a nine year Lease Agreement, committing to make monthly payments using a portion of the savings achieved on energy bills.
This allowed the Werks Group to benefit from savings immediately, without having made any financial contribution themselves.
Transfer of ownership
In Summer 2025, the owner of the property decided to put the building on the market, The remaining value of the lease was paid to BHESCo, and full ownership transferred to the property owner.
BHESCo facilitated a seamless transfer of ownership of the solar panels, boiler, and lighting systems to the new owner. This included all legal and operational documents, plus a handover pack with monitoring instructions and maintenance best practices.
The new owner will enjoy the full financial benefit of the system. All solar electricity generated by the solar panels is free. The owner will also benefit from the remaining fifteen years of the Feed In Tariff subsidy, which is estimated to be ~£5,550. The new owner of the systems assumes full responsibility for system maintenance
Project outcomes (2016-2025)
102%
output of expected
solar generation
3.86MW
solar electricity
generated
47%
reduction in annual
energy consumption
91,210 kWh
electricity consumption reduction
(2016 – 2025)
Client testimonial
“We’ve long been keen to reduce energy costs but tight margins mean it’s very difficult to improve our buildings we lease. Partnering with BHESCo provided a great opportunity to improve our infrastructure and get our energy costs down, as well as benefitting the community in which we operate.”.
Ian Elwick, Director at The Werks Group
Photos
