The Grade 2 listed building, home to the UK’s most important meteorite, has been awarded £4,999 from Gloucestershire County Council’s Greener Gloucestershire Climate Change Fund.
The funding will help the museum improve energy security and adopt a more sustainable future, marking a key step in preserving the historic site.
Solar and battery solutions for long-term sustainability
The project involved installing a pair of Duracell 5+ storage batteries, part of Duracell Energy’s home ecosystem, along with 17 solar PV panels and a solar inverter. The system will allow the museum to generate and store renewable energy, with surplus electricity sold back to the grid.
CME Contractors completed the installation, ensuring the technology complements the museum’s historic character.
A model for rural towns
This project showcases the potential for similar historic sites to reduce costs and emissions using modern energy solutions. The collaboration between local businesses is seen as a community effort to ensure the museum’s sustainability for years to come.
Richard Wakeford, of the Winchcombe Town Trust, said:“The people of Winchcombe were fully on board when applying for a local authority grant which aimed to improve the sustainability of our historic Museum.
“Installing solar and battery solutions to a listed building was a smooth process and a decision that will help secure the Museum’s future for years to come. The install was hassle-free and the products in no way detract from the history and character of the Museum.”
On working with local businesses, Richard added: “The advantage of having a local installer and product supplier in CME Contractors and Duracell Energy added to the community project.
“We would like to thank Craig and the team at CME for installing the solar and Duracell Energy products which will allow us to continue Winchcombe’s rich history and do our part in saving the planet.”
Image: Duracell