York Minster s installer for cathedral solar installation
Publish Time：2024-07-24
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The 184 panels will be installed on the South Quire roof area. Image: York Minster
One of the UK’s most historically significant cathedrals is aiming to slash its emissions with a new solar installation from Associated Clean Technologies.
The cathedral of York Minster has announced that it has teamed up 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 community at York Minster called “a significant milestone in York Minster’s ongoing efforts to integrate modern technology within its centuries-old structure”, will include the use of inverters from SolarEdge, which were chosen for their “renowned” advanced safety features. According to York Minster, the choice to use SolarEdge inverters “was driven by the dual objectives of maximising energy generation yield and prioritising the safety of the cathedral’s structure and its visitors.”
Plans for the installation on the Grade-I listed building were initially announced in March last year after planning permission was granted by City Of York Council. Plans at that time were approved for 199 panels – more than current plans detail – which would generate an estimated 75,000kWh of power each year. Surplus from this generated will be 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 thrilled to integrate solar into our strategy to decarbonise our operation. 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 seek to reduce our impact on the planet in an increasingly worrying climate emergency.”
Alex McCallion, director of works and precinct at York Minster added: “The safety features provided by SolarEdge technology were a decisive factor in our choice of design. The greatest threat to the fabric of York Minster is now extreme weather events. With this system, we can safeguard our heritage while leading by example as we move towards a more sustainable future.”
Nicola Newby, operations director of Associated Clean Technologies stated: “We are honoured to have been ed to carry out this significant installation at York Minster. Our team has worked diligently to ensure that the project not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of safety and efficiency.”