Church applies to place 18 solar panels on roof as part of net zero bid

A church wants to place 18 solar panels on its roof. St Mary’s Church at Whaplode - which celebrates its 900th anniversary this year - says the plans would be the next stage in the venue’s attempts to reach net zero. The panels would be placed on the to-be-replaced 115-year-old South Aisle roof .

“It is has become increasingly self-evident that the world needs to move away from the consumption of fossil fuels to avert serious warming of the atmosphere, and governments around the globe are slowly gearing up to the enormous challenge ahead,” the church’s statement of needs explained. “In recognition of this, the Church of England has committed to becoming a net-zero emitter of carbon dioxide, the principal cause of global heating, by 2030. “In the circumstances, given the necessary replacement of the South Aisle roof, it is an opportune moment for St Mary's to contribute towards this necessary task.



” The full plans, submitted to South Holland District Council, are for the mounting of 18 solar panels on the new South Aisle roof and the installation of storage batteries and inverter in the bell tower. To mark its 900th anniversary, St Mary’s has undertaken a number of celebrations - including an interactive tour of the building. The planning application has been submitted to South Holland District Council by the Parochial Church Council.

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