Replacing Oil Heating with Solar Power and Air Source Heat Pumps
EazEco Energy was appointed to design and install a complete renewable energy system for a rural property in Great Waldingfield, Suffolk comprising a main residence and several on-site rental accommodations.
The property previously relied on oil-fired heating, which resulted in high fuel costs, ongoing maintenance and significant carbon emissions. With the rental accommodation occupied throughout much of the year, the client needed a reliable system capable of reducing operating costs across the entire site.
Following a detailed energy assessment, EazEco Energy designed a bespoke solution combining solar PV, battery storage and air source heat pumps. The aim was to reduce dependence on fossil fuels while providing efficient heating and electricity for both the main property and its tenants.
A Fully Integrated Renewable Energy System
The installation included 45 high-efficiency solar panels, creating a 19.35kW solar PV system.
A 34.6kWh Fox ESS battery storage system was also installed alongside a three-phase hybrid inverter. This allows surplus solar energy generated during the day to be stored and used later, including overnight and during periods of lower sunlight.
Two air source heat pumps replaced the property’s existing oil heating system, providing a cleaner and more efficient way to heat the main residence and rental accommodation.
Smart energy monitoring and remote management were included, allowing the client to view system performance and energy usage. The installation was completed in line with MCS requirements and included the necessary Distribution Network Operator applications, approvals and manufacturer-backed warranties.
Reducing Heating and Electricity Costs
By combining solar generation, battery storage and air source heat pumps, the property can generate, store and use more of its own renewable energy.
This is expected to significantly reduce annual heating and electricity costs while protecting the client from fluctuating oil and grid energy prices.
The system has also increased the property’s energy independence by reducing the amount of electricity imported from the National Grid. Any surplus electricity that is not used or stored may be exported through the Smart Export Guarantee.
Replacing oil heating with renewable technology will also help reduce carbon emissions, improve the energy efficiency of the buildings and potentially support stronger EPC ratings and property values.
Supporting the Rental Accommodation
The rental properties have relatively consistent energy requirements due to their regular occupancy throughout the year.
The system was designed around this usage pattern, generating renewable electricity during daylight hours and storing excess energy for use during evenings and periods of peak demand.
This helps provide reliable heating, hot water and electricity for tenants and guests while reducing the overall running costs of the site.
For the property owner, the installation creates a more efficient and sustainable rental operation. For tenants and holiday guests, it provides comfortable accommodation supported by modern renewable technology.
A Bespoke Approach
Every rural property has different energy requirements, particularly where several buildings and rental units are involved.
Rather than supplying a standard package, EazEco Energy designed the system around the site’s existing energy usage, heating needs and long-term objectives.
The project was managed from the initial survey and design stage through to installation, commissioning and certification. All work was carefully planned to minimise disruption to the property owner, tenants and guests.
The Outcome
The completed installation has transformed the Great Waldingfield property from one that relied heavily on fossil fuels into a modern, low-carbon energy system.
The combination of solar PV, Fox ESS battery storage and air source heat pumps now provides clean electricity, efficient heating and greater control over energy costs across the entire site.
The client has reduced the property’s reliance on oil, lowered its environmental impact and created long-term savings for both the main residence and rental business.
