We invite you to “look up” at our roof and to count the brand-new solar panels that were installed in June 2023.
They have been part of our planning for a very long time but, finally, they have arrived! The installation is the first step towards our target of reducing our carbon footprint to “Net Zero”. In other words, whilst we may still produce some carbon, it will be fully offset by solar-generated electricity which we sell back to the National Grid. Funding has been provided by Centrica’s “Energy for Tomorrow” charity as part of the Yokshire North & East Methodist District “Tea & PV” project.
For the technically minded, our new system consists 54 “Canadian solar panels with SolarEdge optimisers”, two “SolarEdge 10kW Storedge inverters” and one 10kWh lithium battery.
Looking Back
Portholme Church was built about 40 years ago – long before people became aware of “green” issues. Energy in the 1980s was relatively cheap and plentiful from coal-fired power stations. We now have a new roof which not only keeps us dry but also helps to keep the church warm with its much-improved insulation against heat loss.
We have had the ambition to achieve Net Zero for some years now which is why our new roof was designed the way it is. The solar panels bolt onto supporting rails which are clamped to the ridges. Neat!
Looking Forward
We can generate much more electricity than we currently use. Our target now is to switch from using gas to electricity for heating. We are currently assessing the electric heating systems that are available.
The prospect of Portholme Church achieving “Net Zero Carbon” status is now realistic but there is still a lot of work to be done.
Looking Up
Yes, the solar panels will reduce our energy costs BUT our main aim to achieve “Net Zero Carbon” existed long before the recent enormous price increases. We need to protect God’s creation and help protect vulnerable people around the globe from the effects of global warming. We are trying to set an example and to encourage others to follow.
The light of God has always empowered us spiritually; now the light of God also empowers us electrically!