New Solar Panels Installed at Trinity
Image Credit: Sam Prosser
At Trinity, we are very excited to share an update of our latest steps towards sustainability and energy efficiency. As an iconic Grade II* listed venue in Bristol, we understand the importance of embracing green solutions and renewable energy. That’s why we have embarked on a project to install new solar panels on our roof, harnessing the power of the sun to create a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible community space.
"Since their installation two weeks ago, the new solar panels have produced a whopping one megawatt hour of energy - this is enough energy to power an electric bike for 50,000 miles, or twice around the Earth's equator"
The first phase of the project involves reviving the existing solar panels, which were installed in 2015 and funded by M&S Energy Fund with match funding from Naturesave Trust. With a south-facing roof that gets a large amount sunlight, there is a massive potential for harnessing this natural resource. The solar panels, connected to an inverter that converts DC electricity into AC, will once again produce power for internal consumption or to be sold back to the grid. Additionally, the relocation of the inverter to a more accessible area ensures ease of maintenance and monitoring.
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we secured funding from Power to Change, WECA Green Business Grant and Crowdfunder donations from members of the public for a whole new system of solar panels. These 27 new solar panels are affixed to the roof at a low level to ensure that the aesthetics of our historic building - in line with its Grade II* listing - remain uncompromised. We are proud to reveal that these panels are high-efficiency, high-spec units, each generating 425 watts of power. With a combined capacity of 11.5 kilowatts, they almost double the energy output of our previous panels. Since their installation two weeks ago, the new solar panels have produced a whopping one megawatt hour of energy - this is enough energy to power an electric bike for 50,000 miles, or twice around the Earth's equator! Equipped with the latest specifications and linked to the internet, these solar panels allow us to monitor energy production in real-time, both on-site and remotely.
By embracing solar power, we are making important steps towards reducing our environmental impact. One of the most significant benefits is the self-sufficiency we achieve by utilising solar energy to power our building during events. From our soundsystems to our light shows, visitors to the Trinity Centre can enjoy the knowledge that the energy behind these events comes directly from the sunshine above. In addition to this, when excess electricity is generated, Trinity has the opportunity to sell it back to the power grid, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable energy network.
The successful implementation of our solar panel installation project would not have been possible without the expertise and guidance of BU Energy Solutions, a local company based in the heart of St Anne's in Bristol. Collaborating with BU Energy Solutions reinforces our commitment to supporting local businesses and nurturing a sustainable economy within our community.
