Richard Luscombe The Trust is delighted to have secured funding to contribute to the installation of 25kW solar panels at our flagship facility at Manadon.
Manadon Sports and Community Hub has taken the sustainability step, in line with Argyle’s Energy and Environmental Plan, which will see a reduction in energy bills and lower carbon emissions. The funding is made possible thanks to a clean energy project between local charity Plymouth Energy Community (PEC), Plymouth City Council and SailGP.
The project reflects PEC’s commitment to creating a fair, affordable zero carbon energy system and will see PEC donate more than 100 solar panels to community organisations from an old school building that is due to be demolished.
The Trust was identified following a consultation process by PEC with local community groups. The installation of the panels will be funded by a grant from SailGP, which has an ambition to be powered entirely by clean energy by 2025 and works with host venues and key stakeholders to promote clean energy initiatives and sustainable solutions in the places where its events take place.
The planning and solar panel installation process has already begun at Manadon and four community organisations across the city. The work is expected to be completed in advance of the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix, which is returning to Britain’s Ocean City, home of the UK’s first National Marine Park, on July 30 and 31.
Manadon Sports and Community Hub is an award-winning venue located in the heart of Manadon for sports, events, and community services. All proceeds are reinvested back into the Hub and to the work of Argyle Community Trust, enabling us to continue supporting the local community and positively impacting thousands of lives across Devon and Cornwall.
Argyle Community Trust Facilities Manager Lewis Coombes said: ‘We are grateful to Plymouth Energy Community and Sail GP whose funding will support us in our quest to net zero and to become more energy efficient through renewable sources.
“Not only does this help us meet some of the objectives set out in our Environmental Action Plan, but it will also have a positive impact on our operating costs by helping reduce our electricity bill and supporting our Hub in being financially sustainable. Renewable energy will have an important role in reducing our carbon footprint and, importantly, our impact on the environment.”
Alistair Macpherson, Chief Executive of PEC said: “Through our partnership with SailGP we have been able to help four community organisations to gain the benefits of clean green solar power, reducing their bills and saving carbon. Emissions are still rising and the impacts of the cost of living crisis and climate change are being felt, so we need to accelerate and scale up our response. Being able to generate clean energy is an opportunity that we have an obligation to our children to grab with both hands. This is a great example of local partners coming together to make that happen.”
Sail GP’s Sustainability and Impact Project Manager, Rosie Gosling said: “Having a positive impact in the community, supporting projects that promote sustainability and showcasing that sailing can be a force for good is a critical part of our mission at SailGP.
“Working with the PEC on this project is a great example of how we can combine resources and expertise to create sustainable solutions and deliver tangible, clean energy benefits to people and communities in the cities where our events take place.”
Why not book Manadon Sports and Community Hub for your next sporting activity, social occasion, business event, or class? The site boasts a full-size 3G astro pitch, cricket pitch and nets, large function room with bar and terrace, meeting and break-out rooms. Email lewis.coombes@pafc.co.uk for details.
