Solarcrown Commercial recently completed a solar PV installation for a live data center operated by Gamma Telecom at Trafford Park, Manchester. The company says the project shows that solar PV can be introduced safely into a mission-critical environment without affecting operations, resilience or uptime.
Data centers differ from most commercial buildings in that they run continuously. This constant demand means solar energy can be used directly onsite rather than exported to the grid, reducing complexity and risk. The installed system totals 250 kWp and generates approximately 214 MWh of electricity each year. All of this energy is consumed onsite, helping to reduce grid reliance while delivering a measurable reduction in carbon emissions.
"From the outset, protecting operations was the priority. The project was delivered on a live data center site with zero disruption to services. All design work, surveys and approvals were completed before installation began, ensuring the system was fully engineered in advance," the company said.
Onsite works were carefully planned and sequenced, with clear separation between installation activity and operational areas. Access, safety and security protocols were strictly followed throughout. This approach ensured the system could be installed, tested and commissioned without impacting the data centre’s day-to-day operations.
The system is expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 44 tons of CO₂ each year demonstrating how sizeable carbon reductions can be made without risking business continuity. For operators under increasing pressure from customers, investors and regulators, this provides a practical step forward rather than a theoretical ambition.
"The Gamma Telecom installation provides a clear reference point for other data center operators considering onsite renewable energy. It shows that, with the right design approach and delivery discipline, solar PV can be integrated safely into even the most demanding environments," according to Solarcrown Commercial.
