Bwlch Gwynt Solar Farm

Solution

Ground mount Solar System

System size

576kW

Strategic Partner

Vital Energi

Overview

The Bwlch Gwynt Solar Farm project, led by Vital Energi, highlights renewable energy innovation in South Wales. As appointed subcontractor, Nuvolt played a pivotal role in integrating a solar farm with an existing wind turbine system in Carmarthen. This hybrid approach ensures flexible energy generation, balancing solar and wind outputs to optimise export capacity.

Challenge

The Bwlch Gwynt Solar Farm came with a number of challenges that required careful planning and technical expertise. Its remote location meant logistics had to be managed with precision, as limited access made equipment delivery and installation more complex. Integrating the 576kW solar farm into the existing high-voltage export system alongside a wind turbine called for close co-ordination to ensure safety, efficiency and grid compliance. Despite the demanding conditions, Nuvolt successfully delivered high-voltage works, cabling and commissioning on schedule, proving the strength of their collaboration and technical capability.

Maximising Renewable Energy on the Farm

A 576kW solar farm has been integrated with an existing wind turbine through a shared high-voltage export system. Together, they deliver up to 900kW of renewable power.


The hybrid setup balances generation—for example, 200kW from solar and 700kW from wind—optimising output in all weather conditions. This ensures steady performance and efficient use of grid capacity.


Each year, the system generates enough electricity to power around 500 homes. For landowners, it shows how solar can work alongside other renewables to provide reliable returns and keep farmland productive.

Benefits of Ground Mount Solar

Ground mount solar farms, like Bwlch Gwynt, are large-scale installations designed to capture solar energy using solar panels mounted on the ground. Unlike rooftop solar systems, ground-mounted arrays offer more flexibility in terms of location and orientation, allowing them to maximise exposure to sunlight and increase energy production.


In this case, the Bwlch Gwynt Solar Farm utilises a ground mount system, providing several advantages:


  • Optimal Sunlight Exposure: Ground-mounted systems can be placed in open areas, ensuring that the solar panels are positioned for maximum sun exposure throughout the day. This results in higher energy yields, making it an ideal solution for larger renewable energy projects.


  • Scalability: Ground mount solar farms are highly scalable. They can accommodate a much larger number of panels than rooftop installations, as seen with the installation at Bwlch Gwynt. This enables significant energy generation, supporting both local energy needs and contributing to the national grid.


  • Ease of Maintenance and Accessibility: Panels installed on ground mount systems are easier to access, facilitating regular maintenance, cleaning and upgrades. This is crucial for ensuring long-term performance and efficiency, as it allows technicians to quickly address any potential dust accumulation or technical maintenance. 


  • Environmental Impact: Ground mount solar farms typically require minimal land disturbance, as they are often installed in areas with minimal ecological impact. Additionally, they help reduce carbon emissions by generating clean, renewable energy, aligning with national and global efforts to combat climate change.


  • Integration with Other Renewable Technologies: Ground-mounted solar farms can be designed to complement other renewable technologies, making the site more versatile and capable of producing energy from multiple sources, further boosting sustainability.

Owen Thomas-Thorne

Contracts manager, Nuvolt

"The Bwlch Gwynt Solar Farm project presented a unique challenge due to its remote location. Working in an isolated area required careful planning and execution, and we’re proud to have delivered a high-quality installation on time and to specification. This project highlights the capabilities of our team and the strong collaboration with Vital Energi, demonstrating the potential of renewable energy in even the most challenging environments." 

Summary

Ground mount solar farms, like Bwlch Gwynt, showcase the potential of large-scale renewable energy solutions. By combining scalability, high energy yields and reduced environmental impact, these installations play a critical role in supporting the UK’s transition to net-zero carbon emissions. 


Through effective collaboration between Nuvolt, Vital Energi and specialised teams, the Bwlch Gwynt project highlights the integration of solar power into existing renewable systems, strengthening the region’s clean energy infrastructure.