Solar Panels (also known as Photovoltaic or PV panels) can be an option if you are looking to make your church building more environmentally sustainable. In recent years, there has been a growing acceptance of solar panels on church buildings. However, it is still not always a straightforward process, especially if your church is a listed building. In most cases, solar panels should be considered a later phase as there are lots of smaller measures whcih you can implement to make your building more energy efficient which can have a big impact on your Carbon footprint (see Energy Efficient Buildings).
The information below should help answer some initial questions you might have about solar panels and the process of installing them. The DAC staff are also happy to answer any additional questions or concerns you may have. You should also discuss your proposals with your Inspecting Architect (see Architects & Quinquennials). For instance, a Quinquennial Inspection can be a useful opportunity to assess the appropriateness of panels on the roof of your building (see Quinquennial Inspections)
If your church is unlisted and not in a conservation area, solar panels can usually be installed under List B (see Permissions). Click here to download the List B specifications. However, if your church is a listed building or in a conservation area, more substantial permissions such as a faculty may be required (see DAC & Faculties). The DAC is generally encouraging of in principle of well-prepared, thoroughly-considered, and strongly-designed applications.
If your building is listed and/or in a conservation area you will also require planning permission from the local authority. You will also need to consult with Historic England as part of your application. Historic England have their own advice on solar panels: Installing Solar Panels | Historic England. In addition, the DAC will expect you to have consulted national guidance from the Church Buildings Council: 1) A Brief Guide to Solar Panels 2) A Guide to Solar Panel Faculty Applications
Points to consider:
There are lots of factors to consider when making your solar panel application. The DAC staff, your Inspecting Architect, and a good solar panel contractor should help you work through these to help tailor your proposal to your specific building and needs.
In October 2024, the Church Building Council issued the following note on the top 7 issues identified in their consultations on solar panel applications:
1) Incorrect assumptions about the need or cost of an upgraded electricity supply
2) Inconsistent calculations about heating demand or calculations based on unsupported assumptions
3) Inadequate or incorrect assessment of the visual impacts of a PV installation
4) Lack of consideration of condition of the roof and structural implications of PV
5) Inaccurate performance calculations and shade assessments for solar PV
6) Insufficient exploration of batteries and insurance considerations
7) Insufficient detail on the visual impact or method of fixing new cable runs