Case Study: Off-Grid Solar Installation at the Channel Tunnel

Client: LeShuttle

Location: Folkestone, UK

Project Type: Off-Grid Solar Energy Solution

Completion Date: October 2025

Project Snapshot

Challenge: Provide a reliable, independent power source for traffic signage while reducing carbon footprint and enhancing sustainability.

Solution: A off-grid solar system with smart energy management and battery storage, designed to operate 24/7 under challenging conditions.

Outcome: Reliable, self-sufficient energy supply for tunnel infrastructure, with minimal maintenance and a significant reduction in grid dependency.

About the Client

The Channel Tunnel is one of Europe’s most important transportation links, connecting the UK and mainland Europe. Operating 24/7, it demands continuous, reliable power for safety systems, communications, lighting, and operational equipment.

The client was seeking a renewable, off-grid solution to:

• Improve operational resilience

• Meet sustainability and carbon reduction targets

  
  

Challenges

Implementing solar power for a high-security, high-traffic infrastructure like the Channel Tunnel posed unique challenges:

• Remote & Restricted Access: Site is difficult to reach, requiring careful logistics and planning.

• Continuous Operation Requirements: Installation had to be staged to avoid interrupting critical tunnel operations.

• Environmental Factors: Limited sunlight in certain areas and underground segments necessitated careful battery sizing and energy management.

• Regulatory Compliance: Strict safety and operational standards required precise design, engineering, and testing.

  
  

Our Solution

We designed a cutting-edge, off-grid solar system tailored to the clients unique requirements. Key features included:

1. High-Efficiency Solar Panels

• Strategically positioned in surface facilities for maximum sun exposure

• Durable and low-maintenance to withstand adverse weather

  
  

2. Advanced Energy Storage

• Lithium-ion battery banks providing uninterrupted power during low sunlight or peak demand periods

• Scalable capacity to meet future energy needs

  
  

3. Smart Energy Management System

• Real-time monitoring of power production, storage, and usage

• Remote diagnostics to detect and resolve issues without manual intervention

  
  

4. Modular & Robust Design

• Engineered to withstand environmental extremes

• Easily expandable for future upgrades or additional power requirements

  
  

Implementation Approach

Phase 1: Site Survey & Design

• Comprehensive assessment of site and surface facilities

• Energy modelling to size solar panels, batteries, and inverters accurately

  
  

Phase 2: Pre-Fabrication & Staging

• Components pre-assembled off-site to reduce disruption

• Logistics planning to transport equipment to restricted areas safely

  
  

Phase 3: Installation & Integration

• Staged installation to ensure continuous tunnel operations

• Seamless integration with existing infrastructure

  
  

Phase 4: Testing & Commissioning

• Full operational testing, including backup and failover scenarios

• Staff training for remote monitoring and emergency management

  
  

Results & Key Benefits

• Reliable, 24/7 Power: System now runs on a self-sufficient energy supply

• Sustainability Achieved: Reduction in grid electricity and carbon emissions

• Low Maintenance: Smart monitoring reduces manual intervention

• Scalable Solution: Modular design allows for future expansion as energy needs grow

  
  

Why This Project Matters

This installation demonstrates how renewable energy can support high-security, critical infrastructure. By combining solar power, advanced energy storage, and intelligent management systems, we created a solution that is resilient, sustainable, and cost-effective.