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UK: Solar roof for the historic York Minster

The 184 particularly durable Solarwatt ‘Panel vision’ solar modules on the roof of the South Quire will generate almost 70,000 kilowatt hours of clean solar energy annually, enough to supply around 40 average households in England. This corresponds to about a third of the York Minster's energy consumption and reduces the church's annual CO2 emissions by 13 tonnes. The solar installation is part of the Chapter of York Minster's wider plan to make the cathedral self-sufficient in renewable energy and future-proof the building. Further projects are already in the pipeline.

A sustainable solution to preserve history

Alex McCallion, head of building at York Minster, says: ‘If we can do it, anyone can, because our climate is changing. We are experiencing this first hand as we take care of this very precious building.’ He adds that the use of solar energy in the cathedral shows ‘how historic buildings can use renewable energy solutions without compromising their heritage.’ Extreme weather caused by climate change also poses a major threat to York Minster. Prolonged heavy rainfall has accelerated the deterioration of the stone and caused movement in the listed building, raising concerns about its preservation.

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The highly efficient Solarwatt Panel vision double-glazed modules installed by ACT on site have a very small carbon footprint, which is 50 per cent smaller than that of conventional modules. Other reasons for York Minster's decision in favour of the modules were durability, performance and safety. The Solarwatt modules meet the required safety standards of the highest fire protection class (IEC Class A), making them ideal for use on a centuries-old cathedral roof. They are also designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and mechanical stresses without any problems.

Also see: Norman Foster Solar Award for church renovation in Switzerland

‘We are honoured to have been selected for this significant installation at York Minster. Our team has worked diligently to ensure the project meets and exceeds the highest standards of safety and efficiency,’ says Nicola Newby, Operations Director at Associated Clean Technologies Ltd. Neal Goddard, Managing Director of Solarwatt UK & Ireland, adds: ’Solarwatt is proud to be part of this transformative installation alongside our expert partner ACT, who have done an incredible job. The York Minster solar installation is a great example of heritage preservation through sustainable innovation.’ (hcn)