York Minster, located in the city of York, England, has inaugurated more than 180 solar panels on its South Quire roof, marking a significant step in its sustainability journey.
The panels, blessed during a ceremony led by the Dean of York, the Very Rev Dominic Barrington, are expected to generate 70,000 kWh annually, covering one-third of the minster’s electricity needs.
This installation is the fourth solar array on the minster estate, collectively producing 120,000 kWh of energy per year – enough to power 41 average UK homes.
Alex McCallion, Director of Works and precinct at York Minster, said the project, which has been seven years in the making, reflects the minster’s “holistic approach to bringing the estate into the 21st Century.”
He added, “It’s a major step forward in their decarbonisation journey. It’s a Grade I listed building which is internationally important, and we hope this project will inspire others to do the same.”
During the blessing ceremony, Barrington sprinkled holy water on the panels. He noted that the minster’s founding fathers, who were “at the cutting edge of technology in their day,” would have applauded the occasion.
Calling it the “highest blessing” of his 30-year ministry, Barrington emphasised the importance of sustainable energy for the historic site’s future.
[Image credit: BBC]
