One of Britain’s most historically important cathedrals is looking to cut emissions with a new solar energy installation from Associated Clean Technologies.
York Minster Cathedral has announced it is working with Associated Clean Technologies, a solar panel installation team based in Leeds, to install 184 solar panels on the cathedral’s roof.
The installation, which the York Minster community called “a significant milestone in York Minster’s ongoing efforts to integrate modern technology within its century-old structure”, will include the use of SolarEdge inverters, which were chosen for their “renowned” advanced safety. functions. According to York Minster, the choice to use SolarEdge inverters was “driven by the dual objectives of maximizing energy generation output and prioritizing the safety of the cathedral structure and its visitors.”
Plans for the installation of the Grade II listed building were initially announced in March last year after planning permission was granted by York City Council. Plans were approved at the time for 199 panels – more than current plans describe – which were estimated to generate 75,000 kWh of power annually. The surplus generated from this is stored in underground batteries and used to power the cathedral’s evening services.
Commenting on the plans, the Very Reverend Dominic Barrington, Dean of York, said: “We are very pleased to be integrating solar energy into our strategy to decarbonise our operations. This installation is not just about harnessing renewable energy; it is about ensuring the preservation of York Minster for generations to come, as we collectively look to reduce our impact on the planet in the face of an increasingly worrying climate crisis.”
Alex McCallion, director of York Minster’s factories and districts, added: “The safety features of SolarEdge technology were a key factor in our design choice. The biggest threat to the fabric of York Minster now is extreme weather events. With this system we can protect our heritage while leading by example as we move towards a more sustainable future.”
Nicola Newby, operations director of Associated Clean Technologies, said: “We are honored to have been selected to carry out this important installation at York Minster. Our team has worked hard to ensure that the project not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”
Heritage buildings and solar energy
Solar installations on historic or older buildings are a key part of the UK’s plan to decarbonise its energy system. In April this year, King Charles submitted plans for a solar farm on the historic Sandringham estate, and less than a month later the UK government announced that the Public Sector Decarbonization Scheme would award £530 million in public investment for decarbonisation projects; 84 of the projects approved for financing include solar PV installations as part of their plans.
