Leisure centre solar scheme energises net zero objective
A FLAGSHIP leisure centre will have photovoltaic (PV) solar panels installed as a borough council continues its aim to be net zero by 2030.
Councillors in Surrey Heath say the environmentally-friendly project at Places Leisure Camberley underscores the local authority’s priority to protect the environment and builds on previous actions such as investment in electric vehicle charging points, the adoption of renewable sources for its energy supply and investment in lower energy solutions such as LED lighting.
As a busy and successful leisure centre with two pools, Places has a relatively high energy use.
The borough council said PV solar panels are a well-tested, cost-effective way of generating electricity that is easy to install. The project is expected to save 16.3 tonnes of carbon per year and will benefit the borough in the long term, demonstrating that driving to net zero can be financially positive too.
Cllr Morgan Rise, Surrey Heath’s portfolio holder for net zero, wellbeing and environment, expressed enthusiasm for the project, and said: “We are excited with what this initiative can provide. By investing in solar technology, we are reducing our environmental impact but also saving on energy costs. This is a crucial step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Surrey Heath. I really look forward to bringing forward more such proposals soon as we accelerate our energy transition as a council”
The PV solar panels are expected to significantly lower the carbon footprint of the Leisure centre while promoting energy efficiency, and users can look forward to enjoying their favourite activities in a facility that is increasingly environmentally conscious.
Duncan Mackay, contract manager for Places Leisure, said: “As a social enterprise committed to offering greener and sustainable spaces for our communities to get active, we are proud to be further reducing our environmental impact as we strive to create active places and healthy people.”