Bucknell village hall’s future is bright after installing a new solar panel system.
Published: Thursday, 19th December 2024
The upgrades are thanks to a £7,533 grant from Cherwell District Council’s share of government Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) money.
The hall has taken steps towards environmental and financial sustainability by installing a new photovoltaic solar system, which includes new roof solar panels and batteries to store the gathered energy.
Councillor Lesley McLean, Deputy Leader of Cherwell District Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance, Property and Regeneration, said: “Community spaces are crucial for bringing people together. Offering space for a wide range of activities, they are the cornerstone for many of our villages and neighbourhoods, like Bucknell.
“Investing and delivering assistance to our local communities is a key focus for us, to ensure that they continue to serve residents and future generations. We were thrilled to have provided Bucknell village hall with a REPF grant and support it as it looks to become more energy independent and sustainable.”
The new system will generate an estimated 3,964 kWh each year, lowering the CO2 emissions the hall produces and will provide an additional income stream with surplus power going back to the National Grid.
John Kightley, Honorary Treasurer and Trustee of Bucknell Village Hall, said: “We are grateful to have received the REPF grant as it allowed us to finally make this new solar project a reality.
“The new system complements our existing solar system perfectly, meaning we are able to further capitalise on the income generation and lower emissions the hall produces. It gives us the reassurance that the hall can continue to serve our current residents and the future generations to come.”