-
Now live! Generate even more savings with our Skygate system. Click here to learn more.
On this page
Take the first step toward energy independence today.
get a quote
On this page
3 min read
On this page
Wealden Crematorium
Heathfield, East Sussex
In 2019, Wealden District Council declared a climate emergency, pledging to achieve net-zero emissions in all council-owned buildings by 2050. As a first step in this commitment, the council chose to begin at a meaningful and sensitive site: Wealden Crematorium—a peaceful, 25-acre rural facility in Heathfield that serves as a place for the community to say goodbye to loved ones with dignity.
The aim was to reduce the crematorium’s carbon footprint and grid reliance while ensuring the energy system remained invisible to guests and respectful of the space’s solemn purpose. Although the crematorium’s design allowed for a 252 m² solar PV array on the roof, solar generation alone couldn’t meet demand due to weather variability and fluctuating energy loads.
To achieve true sustainability, battery energy storage was needed to:
- Store excess solar generation
- Supply power during peak demand
- Offset expensive grid electricity
- Operate quietly and discreetly on site
OHM Energy installed a 50 kW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System paired with Eaton’s xStorage Compact 40 kW / 50 kWh battery storage system, tailored specifically for Wealden’s needs.
Solar PV System Specifications
- 125 x 400W Monocrystalline Solar Panels
- Flat roof ballasted mounting system (no roof penetration)
- 1 x Three-phase inverter
- Electrical Sub Board for system integration
- DC Isolators, cables, and connections
- Full grid application and approval process
- Battery Energy Storage: Eaton xStorage Compact
- Compact, modular design – easily hidden from view
- National & European safety certifications
- Remote monitoring and diagnostics
- Fast installation – operational within a single morning
“Having declared a Climate Emergency, our focus has been on reducing emissions and costs, and setting an example to others. This solar PV and battery project delivers on all fronts.”Lisa Fiddimore, Wealden District Council
Performance & Impact
The solar and battery storage system now enables Wealden Crematorium to:
- Meet 38% of its annual energy needs through solar and storage
- Reduce CO? emissions by approx. 8 tonnes per year
- Save an estimated 491 tonnes of CO? over 20 years
- Achieve a payback period of 5 years and 7 months
Financial Highlights
- Annual saving/income: £7,088
- Estimated 20-year financial benefit: £224,000
The crematorium’s system is scalable and ready for future enhancements, such as EV charging, smart energy management, or additional storage capacity—a forward-looking approach as Wealden Council continues toward its net-zero goals.
“Eaton’s technology offered the perfect balance of reliability, safety, and discretion. The trust we’ve built through this project sets the foundation for future collaboration with Wealden.”Jason Lindfield, CEO, OHM Energy
Looking Ahead
With this successful installation at Wealden Crematorium, OHM Energy, Eaton, and Wealden Council are now exploring new projects across the district to decarbonise more council-owned sites. The crematorium stands as a model of how solar and storage can work hand-in-hand to create clean, efficient, and respectful spaces that benefit both the environment and the community.
Share article
Share article