Church solar panels in trial to power nearby homes

A church in Knaresborough is taking part in a trial in which 91 solar panels on its roof could help power nearby homes and businesses, including the fire station.

The scheme will see the newly-installed panels divert any excess energy to the local community, rather than return it to the National Grid.

It is part of a wider trial, commissioned by energy regulator Ofgem, testing how renewable energy generated in local neighbourhoods can be shared more fairly.

The Reverend Gordon Hay, of Gracious Street Methodist Church, said: "The idea that we could share some of that energy with our neighbours – people who live or work just around the corner – feels like exactly what a church should be doing."

There are 78 homes and small businesses on the same local electricity circuit as the church, including the town's fire station, and the aim is to ensure that clean, affordable energy can benefit them all.

The overall scheme, which includes similar initiatives at two other local sites, is being led by Knaresborough Community Energy.

Mr Hay said: "It started with members of the congregation asking, 'what more can we do?'

"We're already a community hub – now we can be an energy hub too."

Alongside the wider environmental benefits, the church is also hoping to improve its finances, since the panels - which were installed over the Easter period - should help reduce energy bills.

Tim O'Brien, Net Zero Officer for the Yorkshire North & East Methodist District, said: "This is about building a smarter, more community-focused energy system.

"Instead of relying on energy being pushed in from far away, we can generate it here in Knaresborough, and use it here – saving money and cutting waste."

He suggested the scheme could also reduce the need for major infrastructure, such as pylons and underground cables, which are typically required to carry electricity over long distances.

Local residents can find out more about the scheme at an exhibition at the church on Saturday 7June, as part of the Great Big Green Week.

"In a world that often feels uncertain, this is something positive and grounded," said Mr Hay.

"It's not about grand statements. It's about doing the right thing – for your neighbours, your town, and your future."