Premier In Circle Square

Igen was appointed to design and install a commercial solar PV system on the flat roof of a new Premier Inn development at Circle Square, Manchester, located on the former BBC site along Princess Street, adjacent to the busy A34 route into the city centre.  The project demonstrates Igen’s expertise in delivering high-performance solar solutions in urban, high-rise environments while contributing to sustainable building standards and energy efficiency.

The Challenge

The Premier Inn development required a solar solution that could maximise roof space on a 16-storey building while maintaining structural integrity and adhering to BREEAM excellent standards.  The design needed to complement the building’s sustainable objectives, which included targeting 30% betterment to Part L of the Building Regulations (The Conservation of Fuel and Power), incorporating low-carbon technologies.

The Solution

igen installed a 276-panel solar PV system using an innovative East/West frame mounting system to optimise the use of the available roof area.  A combination of mechanical and ballasted mounting systems securely attached the panels to the roof without compromising its integrity, ensuring both safety and long-term durability.  The installation was carefully coordinated with the construction programme to minimise disruption and ensure seamless integration with other building services.

The Results

• System capacity: 276-panel commercial solar PV system

• Mounting system: East/West frame with mechanical and ballasted fixings

• Sustainability: Supports BREEAM Excellent certification and contributes to 30% betterment over Part L of Building Regulations

• Energy efficiency: Complements air source heat pumps and other low-carbon technologies, reducing operational energy demand

The system maximises renewable energy generation on-site, enhancing the building’s low-carbon credentials while providing reliable, sustainable electricity.

The Impact

The Premier Inn Circle Square installation demonstrates how Igen can deliver innovative solar solutions for high-rise urban developments, integrating renewable energy seamlessly into a mixed-technology, low-carbon building.  The project highlights Igen’s ability to combine engineering expertise, sustainability, and high-quality installation to support buildings that are energy-efficient, environmentally responsible, and fully future-ready.