Roof Refurbishment and Solar PV Installation – CVE

Cambridge Roofers recently completed a roof refurbishment and solar PV installation for CVE(Cambridge Vacuum Engineering), a global leader in advanced welding systems. The existing roof, while structurally sound, suffered from poor thermal performance and outdated materials that contributed to rising maintenance costs. To address these challenges, Cambridge Roofers proposed a high-performance overlay system, avoiding the need for a full strip-out and minimizing disruption to daily operations. At the heart of the project was the integration of a 97.9kW solar PV array, mounted using a non-penetrative system to preserve the roof’s waterproofing integrity and warranty.

This expertly delivered roof refurbishment and solar PV installation not only improved the building’s energy efficiency but also supported CVE’s sustainability goals by significantly cutting carbon emissions. With enhanced insulation achieving a U-value of 0.16 W/m²K, the facility now benefits from superior heat retention and an estimated annual energy saving of over £27,000. The solar system alone is projected to offset 23 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year. Best of all, the project ensured zero downtime for CVE’s operations and is expected to reach full return on investment within 7 years and 10 months—making this roof refurbishment and solar PV installation both a strategic and sustainable upgrade.

Through the combination of high-performance insulation, full gutter restoration, and solar energy integration, this project highlights Cambridge Roofers’ commitment to delivering efficient, future-ready roofing solutions. The upgraded system is expected to reduce carbon emissions by 23 tonnes annually and cut energy costs by more than £27,000 each year. To explore the full scope of the Cambridge Vacuum Engineering project, view the detailed Cambridge Roofers case study.