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21
Nov 2022
Last Updated: 18/11/2022
Fountains Abbey plans solar panels in effort to reduce fossil fuel reliance
The National Trust has lodged a solar plan for the site near Ripon in an effort to produce electricity and contribute to its carbon net zero aims.
Fountains Abbey is planning solar panels for its visitor centre (left).
Fountains Abbey has submitted plans to introduce solar panels at its attraction in an effort to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The National Trust, which owns the site near Ripon, has lodged the plan with Harrogate Borough Council.
It would see the 34kW panels installed on the roof of its visitor centre to generate electricity.
In documents submitted to the council, the trust said the plan was part of its commitment to reduce reliance on fossil fuels at a time of high energy prices.
It said:
“This proposal will reduce the reliance on imported electricity and reduce fossil fuel sources, and in future will enable funds to be directed to other goals such as increased efforts in environmental protection and conservation.
“At a time when the cost of energy is extremely high the organisation is looking at creative ways to minimise the impact on the charity as well as make meaningful change for the environment.”
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The trust had initially proposed to implement 105 panels on the roof, but later reduced this to 95 to preserve the character of the building.
It is hoped the panels will contribute 28,000kWh of electricity to the site each year and help the trust reach its carbon net zero target by 2030.
Harrogate Borough Council will make a decision on the plan at a later date.
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