HM Prison (Leeds)

OVERVIEW

We were appointed to design, supply and install a 126 sqm solar PV array as part of the refurbishment programme of this 19th century Leeds prison being managed by contractor TClarke.

CHALLENGE

The high security nature of HM Prison Leeds made it a challenging scheme logistically in a variety of ways.

Before our work began, all engineers and project staff were fully vetted. They were then screened on each occasion when entering and leaving the site so excellent time management was crucial to our timetable of work.

Deliveries had to be programmed in at specific times and coordinated with the prison to enable access.

We also had to time our work as access to the prison was only possible at set times, such as when prisoners were in their cells.

With security of paramount importance, all our materials had to be securely strapped in each day as soon as the work had been completed for that particular shift.

SOLUTION

Another safety measure saw flashing installed around the solar panels to prevent gripping points so, for example, anyone throwing a rope onto the roof could not grip or hook onto the panels.

To enhance safety, the design of the scheme saw all panels fixed flat to the roof of a trapezoidal profile sheet.

RESULTS

The end result is a project that passed without incident, met all safety and security measures and created a 25kWp solar PV scheme that will save the prison 20,700kWh of energy every year.