Project overview

Hethel Engineering Centre supports high performance engineering companies located throughout Norfolk. The original building at the centre had been operating at maximum capacity and they urgently required a new building to satisfy increasing levels of demand. The client wanted the new facility to meet a high level of sustainability, achieving a BREEAM excellent rating and using key renewable technologies, such as photovoltaics (PV), to minimise its environmental impact.

Bauder’s Thermoplan single ply membrane was specified for the new building’s 2,500m2 roof due to its longevity. Roof areas totalling 500m² were fitted with 160 PV Modules, enabling the centre to generate at least 44.23 mWh of solar power each year and annual CO² savings of 23.40 tonnes. The PV system was installed without any penetration of the waterproofing or roof deck, ensuring the integrity of the roof is completely upheld. The simplicity of the installation also meant that approved contractor, Voland Asphalte, could install the entire PV array in just one day.

The centre remained operational throughout the works, which caused logistical challenges, however all deliveries were timed as not to conflict with vehicles moving in and out of the facility. The work at HEC was completed on time and to budget, providing the client with an innovative roof that boasts extraordinary environmental credentials.