Good News Spotlight: St Ann with Emmanuel receives funding for new solar PV power system
St Ann with Emmannuel church in St Ann’s, Nottingham, has had funding approved for a new solar PV power system and battery storage which will reduce energy costs improve the building’s overall environmental sustainability.
The grant of £20,286 was awarded by the FCC Communities Foundation, which is a not-for-profit business that awards grants for community projects through the Landfill Communities Fund.
The grant is a significant step towards sustainability for the church and an encouraging example of what can be achieved in this diocese, which remains committed to our Net Zero Carbon target for 2030.
The new solar power system will also be a blessing to the wider community beyond the church membership, as the building is used regularly by a number of local community organisations including other churches, sports groups, a parent and toddler group and the Hope Nottingham Food Bank.
Densel Davy is a Licensed Lay Minister and vice chair of the PCC. He’s looking forward to the benefits that the new system will provide, saying, “This project will provide a real boost to the local community and the congregation of St Ann with Emmanuel church. It’s fantastic that FCC Communities Foundation has awarded us this funding and we’re really looking forward to our Solar PV power system delivering cheaper electricity and costs to our community groups over the next year.”
Cheryl Raynor, Grant Manager at FCC Communities Foundation, said: “We are delighted to support St Ann with Emmanuel Church with this grant. The installation of a solar PV system and battery storage will help reduce energy costs, improve the sustainability of this valued community facility, and ensure that the many groups who use the church can continue to benefit from a welcoming and affordable space for years to come.”
Now that the funding has been approved, installation can begin and is expected to be complete as early as August 2026.
If your church is considering work to reduce carbon emissions, it is now possible to apply for funding through the Net Zero Carbon Quick Wins scheme from the Church of England.