A historic community church in York is leading the way toward a sustainable future after switching to renewable energy sources, slashing its energy bills by more than £4,000 annually while supporting the global push for net zero carbon emissions.
The Acomb Methodist Church has undergone a major green retrofit, joining 20 other churches across York and North Yorkshire that have integrated solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and LED energy-efficient lighting as part of a regional sustainability initiative.
This eco-friendly transformation was made possible through the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Net Zero Fund—a £7 million grant supported by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
⚡ Renewable Energy Powering Faith and Community
Fran Taylor, Treasurer of Acomb Methodist Church and a member of its council since 2017, expressed gratitude for the investment in clean energy:
“Knowing that we’re sustainable for the long term makes a huge difference. Our building serves over 1,200 people each week—keeping it warm, bright, and welcoming is essential, but also costly. By cutting energy costs, we can invest more in helping our local community.”
The church’s green transformation includes 30kWh of solar battery storage and an advanced solar energy system expected to reduce electricity bills by 50%.
“We want to live out our mission to care for God’s earth,” Taylor added. “By generating clean energy and feeding it back into the grid, we’re powering the equivalent of 3.5 UK homes entirely with renewable electricity.”
🌞 Sustainable Solutions for Community Impact
Acomb Methodist Church now serves as a model for sustainable community buildings, offering programs like a community garden, weekly pop-up café, and free hot meal services to support residents affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
The project, named Building Sustainable Hope, received £739,465 from the Net Zero Fund. It forms a vital part of the Yorkshire North & East Methodist District’s strategy to reach net zero emissions by 2040.
Rev. Leslie Newton, Chair of the District, emphasized the broader impact:
“By working together, our churches are reducing their carbon footprints and creating greener, more inclusive spaces that serve both congregations and neighbors.”
🌍 A Model for Global Net Zero Communities
York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith praised the initiative as a blueprint for sustainable development:
“Solar panels are not just reducing energy costs—they’re empowering local communities and freeing up resources to help people in need.”
The church’s success story demonstrates how renewable energy investments can transform community hubs into climate-positive spaces, proving that faith-based institutions can play a vital role in achieving global energy sustainability and carbon neutrality goals.
With a vision rooted in both environmental stewardship and community care, Acomb Methodist Church stands as a shining example of how clean energy innovation can drive meaningful change—locally and globally.
