Hybrid Renewable Energy System - Oban

HYBRID WIND, SOLAR & BATTERY RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEM

The client is based on the island of Kerrera, off the west coast of Scotland, and required a robust, sustainable energy solution to reduce reliance on the grid while maintaining reliable power in a remote island location.

→ 6kW SD6 wind turbine

→ 38.4kWh battery storage

→ 2 × 5.5kW Sunsynk inverters

→ Estimated annual production: 13,900 kWh

→ Electricity bills reduced by over 57%

→ Over £2,500 saved since November 2023

PROJECT DETAILS

PROJECT DETAILS

Challenge

Nordri was approached to specify, supply, and install a small wind turbine capable of reducing grid demand while also providing backup power during outages. The battery system needed to intelligently discharge during periods of high energy use to minimise grid consumption, while also being able to support essential loads in an off-grid scenario.

The remote island setting added further complexity, requiring careful coordination of transport, installation, and commissioning—ideally within a single site visit—to minimise disruption and costs. Long-term reliability and the ability to monitor and maintain the system remotely were also key requirements.

Solution

• Nordri worked closely with SD Wind Energy to specify an appropriate SD6 6kW wind turbine and tower combination. In partnership with wholesale suppliers, Nordri also designed a battery storage system capable of charging directly from the wind turbine and discharging strategically to reduce grid demand.

  The project was delivered in phases. In 2020, Nordri installed the 6kW SD6 wind turbine. In 2023, the system was significantly enhanced with the addition of nine 540W solar PV modules, extended battery storage totalling 38.4kWh, and two 5.5kW Sunsynk inverters—creating a true hybrid renewable system.

  The entire setup is housed in a purpose-built studio and can simultaneously harvest energy from wind and solar, delivering up to 11.4kW of combined renewable input. While primarily grid-connected, the system is fully capable of operating off-grid during power failures. In the event of prolonged outages or low renewable generation, an automatic diesel generator can recharge the battery bank to ensure continuity of supply.

  All equipment was transported to Oban and then onto Kerrera via a small landing craft, landing directly on the beach. Nordri engineers completed the full installation and commissioning in a single site visit.

  The system also features advanced online monitoring, allowing both the client and Nordri to track performance remotely. Fault detection, diagnostics, and some repairs can be carried out without attending site, significantly improving long-term reliability and response times.

Results & Impact

The hybrid renewable system delivers an estimated 13,900kWh of clean energy annually, significantly reducing the client’s reliance on the grid. Since November 2023, electricity bills have fallen by over 57%, resulting in savings exceeding £2,500. The system provides robust energy security through off-grid capability, automatic backup generation, and remote monitoring, ensuring reliable power in a challenging island environment. Overall, the project delivers a highly resilient, future-proof, and sustainable energy solution with strong financial and environmental benefits.

Get In Touch

Looking to reduce energy costs and improve energy security—no matter how remote your location? Get in touch with Nordri today to discuss a tailored renewable energy solution for your site.