Pulling half-hourly meter data
12-24 months of HH meter data (every 30 minutes, 17,520 data points per year per site) is the foundation. Most UK commercial sites with smart meters or AMR can export HH data. Some still require manual collection — typically £200-£500 to extract from supplier APIs.
Baseload analysis
HH meter data reveals daytime baseload, peak demand, weekend dip, and operational rhythm. Daytime baseload (08:00-18:00 average) is the key sizing input — solar should match or slightly exceed daytime baseload for optimum self-consumption. Peak demand drives DNO connection sizing. Weekend dip drives SEG export forecasting.
Self-consumption modelling
Combine HH meter load profile with PVSyst PV generation profile (also half-hourly) to produce a detailed self-consumption forecast. Modelled self-consumption typically within 5% of measured. Critical for accurate financial DCF.
ESOS Phase 4 alignment
ESOS audits identify energy-saving opportunities with quantified cost, savings, and payback. Solar PV typically appears as top recommendation. Our standard energy audit deliverable is ESOS-aligned — feeds directly into ESOS Phase 4 audit submission (deadline December 2027).
Common questions
How much HH data do you need?
12-24 months minimum. The 12-month minimum captures full annual seasonal pattern; 24 months allows year-on-year trend analysis and validates against any operational changes (e.g. shift pattern changes, capacity expansion).
What if we don't have HH meter data?
We can usually extract from supplier APIs even where customer has not previously accessed it (£200-£500 typical). For sites without smart meters, we can install temporary CT clamps for 4-8 week measurement period as an alternative.