A Northumberland-based solar energy specialist, SCJ Renewables, has successfully completed the first phase of a solar power project at Ramside Hall, a four-star hotel in County Durham. The £177,000 investment by Ramside Estates marks a significant step towards the hotel’s goal of becoming energy self-sufficient.
The project, which began in March 2024, saw the installation of 326 solar panels across the hotel’s spa, main reception area, and bedroom block. These panels are now integrated into the hotel’s main electricity supply, helping to reduce its reliance on conventional energy sources. The system is expected to generate an estimated 177,000 kWh of energy annually, which is enough to power 2,095 street lights in Durham City Centre for a year. In addition, the initiative will cut down on approximately 83,000 kg of CO₂ emissions.
The hotel’s second phase of the project has now begun, with the installation of 364 additional panels on the roof of a newly built Golf and Bowling Entertainment Centre. This includes a two-storey driving range and a six-lane bowling alley. The second phase continues Ramside Estates’ commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental footprint.
John Adamson, Managing Director of Ramside Estates, expressed his satisfaction with the project’s progress, stating: “We are delighted with the expertise and professionalism demonstrated by SCJ Renewables during the first phase. Despite challenges like limited working hours and restricted roof access, SCJ Renewables completed the work efficiently, without any disruption to the hotel’s operations or guests.”
Adamson continued: “This project is a key step in our ongoing sustainability journey, enabling us to offer exceptional guest experiences while reducing our environmental impact.”
SCJ Renewables’ work at Ramside Hall adds to a string of successes for the company, which recently won the ‘Commercial Solar Project of the Year’ award at the Solar & Storage Live awards. The award recognised their efforts at The Lanchester Group’s £21 million Greencroft Two bottling facility in County Durham.
Sean McIntyre, Managing Director of SCJ Renewables, said: “We are proud to have completed the first phase of the solar project at Ramside Hall. John and his team fully understand the potential of solar energy, and we are excited to continue working with them to expand their solar capabilities and help them reach their goal of energy self-sufficiency.”
The project marks a major milestone for Ramside Hall’s long-term sustainability strategy and sets an example for other businesses looking to embrace renewable energy solutions.
