Oakes Energy Services was awarded a two-year renewables framework with Northumberland Estates following a competitive tender based on cost and quality. The team has successfully designed, installed, and commissioned various photovoltaic (PV) systems across multiple sites including Lionheart, Collections Building, Ratcheugh Farm, Alnwick Castle Golf Club, Argos Alnwick, Wynyard Business Park, Linnet Close, Earlsway Trade Park, and Snakes & Ladders, with a total spend to date of £550,000. Services included planning liaison, structural surveys, DNO coordination, installation of MCCBs, distribution equipment, submains cabling, PV arrays, AC accessories, digital display boards, earthing works, fire stopping, remote energy monitoring, and full testing and commissioning. This partnership supports Northumberland Estates’ wider mission to lead in low-carbon energy and sustainability.
Challenges included navigating live operational environments, complex traffic management, limited site access, and winter weather delays. Solutions involved weekend work to minimise disruption, rerouting cabling to avoid clashes with existing services, and implementing a fixed roof safety fall arrest system to allow safe ongoing maintenance. These efforts underline Oakes’ capability to deliver sustainable energy projects with minimal disruption and long-term benefit to clients and the wider community, helping Northumberland Estates progress on its net zero journey.