A Hole-in-One for Solar Power at Royal Portrush

Customer: Royal Portrush Golf Club

Industry: Sports and Leisure

System Sizes & Equipment Overview

Facility	System Size	Number of Panels	Inverter	Battery Storage
Greenkeepers Shed	74 kW	136	Solis	3x BYD batteries
Clubhouse	14.5 kW	32	SolarEdge	N/A
Ladies Clubhouse	4.9 kW	9	SolarEdge	N/A
Starter Hut	24 kW	54	SolarEdge	N/A

Financial Savings:

·         In the first year: Over 66,000 kwh generated combined

·         Within 25 year panel warranty: Over 1.6 million kwh generated combined

 Level of Self-Sufficiency Post Solarfix Installation: Approximately 26.2% self-sufficiency across all installations

Environmental Impact

• Annual Carbon Savings: Over 24,000 kg

• Carbon Saved Over 25-Year Panel Warranty: Over 600,00 kg

  
  

Customer Testimonial:

“At Royal Portrush Golf Club, we take great pride in maintaining the highest standards across every aspect of our facilities, and our commitment to sustainability is no exception. When we decided to invest in solar energy across our site, we sought a partner who shared our dedication to quality, reliability, and excellence.

 Working with Solarfix has been an outstanding experience from start to finish. Over the past two years, their team has installed four solar systems across our Clubhouse, Ladies Clubhouse, Greenkeepers Shed, and Starter Hut, using a mix of Solis and SolarEdge systems tailored perfectly to our needs. Each project was delivered with exceptional professionalism, technical expertise, and meticulous attention to detail, which is why we’ve continued to return to Solarfix every time.

 The entire process was seamless, and the results speak for themselves. Collectively, the systems have already generated 85.61 MWh of clean energy and offset 11,714 kg of carbon emissions, delivering significant environmental and operational benefits while aligning perfectly with our long-term sustainability goals.

 It was important for us to choose a company whose reputation matched our own values as a Club and Solarfix have proven to be that partner; a trusted, forward-thinking business delivering first-class renewable energy solutions. We are absolutely delighted with the outcome and would not hesitate to recommend Solarfix to any organisation seeking excellence in solar energy.”

At Solarfix, we are incredibly proud to have established a strong partnership with the prestigious Royal Portrush Golf Club. Over the last few years, we have installed solar systems across multiple facilities within the club, including the Starter Hut, Greenkeepers Shed, the Clubhouse and the Ladies Clubhouse.

Why Royal Portrush Chose Solarfix

Royal Portrush has recognised the long-term value of solar energy - not only through significant financial savings but also through its meaningful environmental impact. Their decision to repeatedly engage Solarfix across multiple buildings reflects a strong trust in our expertise, our workmanship, and our commitment to delivering systems that perform reliably year after year.

A key part of this partnership is the alignment between Royal Portrush’s sustainability ambitions and Solarfix’s core values of integrity, positivity, professionalism, and quality. These values guide every stage of our work—from initial design to installation, commissioning, and aftercare—ensuring the club receives a service built on transparency, respect, and expert guidance.

Royal Portrush also knows that the entire Solarfix team is always on hand to answer questions, provide updates, or offer support whenever needed. This ongoing, open communication has helped foster a strong working relationship based on trust and responsiveness.

They’ve also seen first-hand the tangible benefits that solar power in NI can bring: reduced energy costs, lower carbon emissions, and increased energy resilience. By choosing Solarfix, they benefit from our MCS certification and ISO-accredited approach, which ensures consistent quality, safety, and environmental responsibility across projects of every scale.

With four installations now complete, their continued confidence in our ability to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality systems is clear—and we’re proud to support their journey toward greater sustainability across the club.

Tailored Solar Solutions for Each Facility

Each facility at Royal Portrush Golf Club presented its own unique energy requirements, which we met with custom-designed solar systems. We ensured that every installation was optimised for energy efficiency and maximum return on investment, carefully sizing each system to meet the specific energy demands of the individual buildings.

Two of the systems installed at Royal Portrush — the Greenkeepers Shed and the Starter Hut — were large enough to require full G99 approval. This meant our team handled the entire process on the club’s behalf, including liaising with NIE, submitting the application, and securing permission before installation.

In contrast, the Clubhouse and Ladies Clubhouse systems fell under the G98 ‘fit and inform’ category. This is a simpler and faster process where installation can proceed immediately, and the system is simply reported to NIE once completed.

The reason for choosing different approval routes comes down to what is most beneficial for the customer.

·         G99 Systems: With many large G99 systems, export payments are often not available, meaning it’s important to ensure the scale of the system truly makes sense before proceeding. For any 3-phase site installing an inverter over 10 kW, a G99 application must be approved by NIE beforehand. These systems generally need a larger setup to tackle higher energy bills, which is why submitting a full G99 application is both necessary and justified.

·         G98 Systems: G98 systems, however, do receive export payments, making them attractive for smaller buildings where the energy generation aligns well with consumption and grid requirements. They’re also part of the “Fit and Inform” process, meaning they don’t require prior approval - offering a quicker and more streamlined route for suitable sites.

By assessing each building individually, we ensured Royal Portrush received the most cost-effective, compliant, and financially beneficial setup for every part of their site.

Greenkeepers Shed — 74 kW System

The largest and most technically advanced system on-site.

We installed 136 × 545 W panels on the metal roof paired with a 60 kW Solis hybrid inverter and three 15.4 kWh BYD batteries.

This building has substantial energy requirements, so we spent considerable time analysing load patterns, machinery schedules, and available roof space. The result: a robust system capable of storing excess solar energy and delivering power day and night, dramatically reducing grid reliance.

Main Clubhouse — 14.5 kW System

The Clubhouse hosts the bar, restaurant, and offices so the system was designed for high efficiency and reliability.

The Clubhouse received 32 × 455 W panels with a flat roof design and a 10 kW SolarEdge inverter.

Our team carefully sized this system after reviewing the clubhouse’s usage, operational needs, and available roof structure. The installation now helps power essential facilities, cuts energy bills, and strengthens the club’s long-term sustainability strategy.

Ladies Clubhouse — 4.9 kW System

The system provides sufficient energy for lighting, small appliances, and relaxation spaces, reflecting careful design perfectly tailored, space-conscious solution.

This system uses 9 panels with a flat rood design and a 3.68 kW SolarEdge inverter, with the design carefully matched to the building’s modest energy requirements and physical layout.

Through detailed discussions with the club, we ensured the system fits neatly and performs exactly as needed without over- or under-sizing.

Starter Hut — 24 kW System

The Starter Hut powers ticketing, lighting, and daily operations so it needed a powerful solution to support daily golf operations.

The Starter Hut is equipped with 54 × 560 W panels on a tile roof mounting kit and a 33 kW SolarEdge inverter and optimisers.

After reviewing its energy loads and roof capacity, we engineered the system to provide meaningful savings and improve operational efficiency.

Lifetime Energy Generation & Long-Term Savings

Across all installations at Royal Portrush Golf Club, the combined systems are projected to generate over 1.6 million kWh of clean, renewable electricity over the lifetime of the solar panels. This long-term energy production translates into significant financial savings, particularly as energy prices continue to rise throughout Northern Ireland.

These savings will allow the club to reinvest directly back into its facilities, supporting future improvements, enhancing the visitor experience, and enabling Royal Portrush to host more events for both members and the wider golfing community. By reducing reliance on traditional grid electricity — supported further by on-site storage batteries such as BYD units — the club is safeguarding itself against future cost increases while contributing to a more sustainable, low-carbon future.

Carbon Savings and Environmental Impact

Royal Portrush Golf Club has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint thanks to the solar installations. The combined systems are expected to save an over 24,000 kg of carbon annually, with a total of over 600,000 kg of carbon saved over the 25-year lifespan of the solar panels. This demonstrates the club’s commitment to sustainability and its leadership in adopting environmentally responsible practices within the sports and leisure industry.

Efficient & Safe Installation Process

Our priority throughout each project has been to minimise disruption to the club’s day-to-day operations while adhering to stringent health and safety standards. We ensured all installations—from the PV panels to the solar power storage batteries—were carried out with minimal interference to club activities. Our team worked closely with Royal Portrush’s management to coordinate the installations around their schedule, making the process as seamless as possible.

To maintain full site safety, Solarfix implemented controlled access measures throughout the site. This included using telehandlers on the greenkeepers’ compound and erecting scaffolding at the starter hut to allow safe working access. We also cordoned off designated areas for equipment, vehicle movement, and installation activities. These controlled zones protected our staff, Royal Portrushs’ staff, and all club members and visitors using the facilities.

Safety was paramount. Each phase was meticulously planned and executed to ensure the installations complied with all local regulations and industry standards. By maintaining a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and high-quality workmanship, we were able to deliver solar systems that not only perform optimally but also reflect the professionalism and reliability of Solarfix.

Solarfix, as an MCS-registered installer, guarantees that every installation is designed, commissioned, and delivered to the highest standards using MCS-certified products. MCS certification also means our work meets strict safety and performance standards audited by UKAS, giving clients confidence in long-term reliability.

Additionally, Solarfix holds ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 accreditations, demonstrating commitment to:

• ISO 9001: Quality management and customer satisfaction

• ISO 14001: Environmental responsibility and sustainability

• ISO 45001: Health and safety in every installation

  
  

Paired with our expertise in solar panels Northern Ireland and solar power storage batteries, this ensures Royal Portrush received a solution that is safe, efficient, and compliant with international standards.

Advanced Solar Technology and Storage Solutions

Incorporating cutting-edge technology was key to optimising energy generation and storage at Royal Portrush. The BYD solar batteries installed at the Greenkeepers Shed allow for efficient storage of excess solar energy, providing reliable power during off-peak hours. This significantly reduces the club’s reliance on the grid, promoting energy independence.

Additionally, the installations feature components from trusted brands, ensuring long-term reliability and performance. The use of BYD solar batteries, Solis inverters & SolarEdge inverters and equipment across the site guarantees that each solar system will continue to perform at the highest level, delivering the expected savings and sustainability benefits.

Future Projects and Expansion

Royal Portrush Golf Club continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing sustainability across the entire estate. As they endeavour to continuously improve their environmental performance, we look forward to partnering with them again on their next project and supporting their journey toward greater energy independence.

Michael O’Donnell, Director of Solarfix — Commentary

"Working with Royal Portrush Golf Club has been an extraordinary experience. As one of the most prestigious and globally recognised golf courses — consistently ranked in the world’s top 10 — it stands as a landmark not only for Northern Ireland, but internationally.

To be trusted repeatedly by an organisation of this calibre is something we genuinely value. Each project we delivered was shaped by detailed conversations about energy use, long-term goals, and the practical realities of each building. We sized every system with precision to maximise carbon savings and significantly reduce electricity bills — ensuring each installation delivers real-world results.

Only two locations required battery storage, and that decision was driven entirely by what would benefit the club most. This bespoke, needs-first approach defines everything we do at Solarfix. It’s been an honour to work alongside the team at Royal Portrush, and we look forward to many more years of partnership."

Conclusion:

As the demand for solar panels Northern Ireland continues to rise, Solarfix remains at the forefront, offering bespoke advanced solar systems, and long-term energy savings. If you’re considering solar power for your golf club, business or home, whether it’s a large commercial site or a smaller facility, get in touch by calling our office on 0800 246 5198 or by completing our contact form here.