Powering Tomorrow's Renewable Workforce: Segen Partners with 3ti

Segen Wincanton

Medway, Kent

As a leader in the renewables sector, we are committed to setting an example by using innovative solutions to reduce our carbon footprint. At the same time, we aim to ensure that students have a rewarding and positive experience during their time at the Academy. Providing a convenient and sustainable onsite EV charging solution will help us achieve that goal.

James Galloway

Global Product Director at Segen Ltd

3ti’s Papilio3 solar EV charging hub brings sustainable transport solutions to Segen’s Training Academy, supporting the next generation of renewable energy installers.

Background

Segen, the UK’s leading distributor of renewable energy products, operates a state-of-the-art Training Academy and Distribution Centre in Medway, Kent. The Academy plays a crucial role in addressing the critical shortage of qualified renewables installers in the UK, with capacity to train approximately 1,600 individuals annually in essential skills for solar PV, battery, heat pump, and EV charging installations. As a leader in the renewables sector, Segen is committed to demonstrating sustainable practices within its own operations while providing an exceptional experience for staff and trainees. This commitment extends to offering convenient and sustainable transport solutions at their facilities.

Challenge

Segen faced several challenges common to many forward-thinking organisations:

  • Providing adequate EV charging infrastructure for staff and trainees without significant disruption or construction
  • Reducing reliance on the National Grid at their busy training facility
  • Maintaining alignment with their corporate sustainability goals and net-zero targets
  • Creating a practical demonstration of renewable energy integration for trainees

A solution was needed that could be implemented quickly, offer minimal disruption to operations, and serve as both a practical amenity and a showcase of renewable energy integration.

Our Approach

3ti delivered its award-winning Papilio3 smart EV solar charging hub to Segen’s Training Academy, providing:

  • On-site charging capability for up to 12 EVs simultaneously at up to 22kW
  • Optimisation of existing grid connections through smart-charging technologies
  • A customised unit in Segen corporate colours with TV screens for course advertising, product information, and energy generation data
  • Multiple payment options including RFID cards, app access, and contactless payments for maximum user convenience
  • Rapid deployment with no need for planning permission due to the portable nature of the unit

The Papilio3 unit, constructed from an upcycled shipping container and featuring integrated solar power generation, was provided on a three-year rental contract, offering Segen flexibility without significant capital expenditure.

Results

The partnership between 3ti and Segen delivered multiple benefits:

  • Immediate access to sustainable EV charging infrastructure for staff and trainees
  • Reduced reliance on the National Grid through on-site renewable energy generation
  • Enhanced visitor experience at the Training Academy with convenient charging facilities
  • A practical demonstration of integrated renewable energy systems for trainees
  • Strengthened relationship between two leaders in the UK renewables sector
  • Alignment with Segen’s commitment to decarbonisation and sustainability
  • Tangible cost savings on electricity through solar energy generation
  • Creation of an additional revenue stream by opening the charging hub to the public and nearby businesses, increasing utilisation outside of academy hours

 

As James Galloway, Global Product Director at Segen Ltd, noted: “As a leader in the renewables sector, we are committed to setting an example by using innovative solutions to reduce our carbon footprint. At the same time, we aim to ensure that students have a rewarding and positive experience during their time at the Academy. Providing a convenient and sustainable onsite EV charging solution will help us achieve that goal.”

The installation represents a perfect case study of destination charging, demonstrating how businesses can rapidly deploy EV infrastructure while simultaneously advancing their sustainability goals and reducing operational costs.

3ti’s Papilio3 solar EV charging hub brings sustainable transport solutions to Segen’s Training Academy, supporting the next generation of renewable energy installers.

Background

Segen, the UK’s leading distributor of renewable energy products, operates a state-of-the-art Training Academy and Distribution Centre in Medway, Kent. The Academy plays a crucial role in addressing the critical shortage of qualified renewables installers in the UK, with capacity to train approximately 1,600 individuals annually in essential skills for solar PV, battery, heat pump, and EV charging installations. As a leader in the renewables sector, Segen is committed to demonstrating sustainable practices within its own operations while providing an exceptional experience for staff and trainees. This commitment extends to offering convenient and sustainable transport solutions at their facilities.

Challenge

Segen faced several challenges common to many forward-thinking organisations:

  • Providing adequate EV charging infrastructure for staff and trainees without significant disruption or construction
  • Reducing reliance on the National Grid at their busy training facility
  • Maintaining alignment with their corporate sustainability goals and net-zero targets
  • Creating a practical demonstration of renewable energy integration for trainees

A solution was needed that could be implemented quickly, offer minimal disruption to operations, and serve as both a practical amenity and a showcase of renewable energy integration.

Our Approach

3ti delivered its award-winning Papilio3 smart EV solar charging hub to Segen’s Training Academy, providing:

  • On-site charging capability for up to 12 EVs simultaneously at up to 22kW
  • Optimisation of existing grid connections through smart-charging technologies
  • A customised unit in Segen corporate colours with TV screens for course advertising, product information, and energy generation data
  • Multiple payment options including RFID cards, app access, and contactless payments for maximum user convenience
  • Rapid deployment with no need for planning permission due to the portable nature of the unit

The Papilio3 unit, constructed from an upcycled shipping container and featuring integrated solar power generation, was provided on a three-year rental contract, offering Segen flexibility without significant capital expenditure.

Results

The partnership between 3ti and Segen delivered multiple benefits:

  • Immediate access to sustainable EV charging infrastructure for staff and trainees
  • Reduced reliance on the National Grid through on-site renewable energy generation
  • Enhanced visitor experience at the Training Academy with convenient charging facilities
  • A practical demonstration of integrated renewable energy systems for trainees
  • Strengthened relationship between two leaders in the UK renewables sector
  • Alignment with Segen’s commitment to decarbonisation and sustainability
  • Tangible cost savings on electricity through solar energy generation
  • Creation of an additional revenue stream by opening the charging hub to the public and nearby businesses, increasing utilisation outside of academy hours

 

As James Galloway, Global Product Director at Segen Ltd, noted: “As a leader in the renewables sector, we are committed to setting an example by using innovative solutions to reduce our carbon footprint. At the same time, we aim to ensure that students have a rewarding and positive experience during their time at the Academy. Providing a convenient and sustainable onsite EV charging solution will help us achieve that goal.”

The installation represents a perfect case study of destination charging, demonstrating how businesses can rapidly deploy EV infrastructure while simultaneously advancing their sustainability goals and reducing operational costs.

Related Projects

Surrey County Council

SCC’s growing electric vehicle fleet will be powered by Papilio3, supporting the council’s sustainability strategy. The solution was chosen to fulfill the urgent need for EV charging infrastructure at the site.

Merseyside Police

“The force’s target is to be Net Zero for all scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040, and it is hoped exploring the use of technology such as this – which uses solar panels on its roof – will help us achieve that.”

Keith Dickinson - Director of Resources Merseyside Police