Three Norfolk churches consider solar panels 

Two Norfolk churches have applied to their local councils for planning permission to consider solar panel installations on the roof and a third church in Norwich city centre is considering the move.

The Parochial Church Councils at All Saints Church in Mundesley and All Saints Church in Chedgrave have put in requests to the local council.

If planning permission is granted, the next stage is to apply to the Diocese of Norwich for a faculty which will then be referred for further consideration.

The PCC at St Stephens Church in Norwich is also considering the use of solar panels.

Nicholas Cannon, Secretary of the Diocesan Advisory Committee said: “Solar panels can be a valuable part of a comprehensive package of carefully considered works to make a church building more environmentally sustainable. This will also include such measures as fixing broken windows, appropriate draught proofing, ensuring roofs are watertight and swapping to LED light bulbs.”

“However, solar panels can be inappropriate in some circumstances for a variety of reasons, for example, where the roof itself contributes greatly to the significance of a listed building, there is a presumption against solar installations. Every case will need to carefully assess the harm caused by the panels against the benefits provided by them.”

To find out more about how you and your church can work towards engaging with the environment, getting an eco award or achieving carbon net zero, visit www.dioceseofnorwich.org.

Pictured above is All Saints church in Chedgrave, © Simon Knott