Willow House care home in South Brent, Devon, has announced the installation of solar panels part-funded by the South Brent Community Energy Society.
The installation at Willow House – part of Centrum Care Group – was marked with an event at Willow House Garden attended by residents, staff, members of the local community, and representatives from South Brent Community Energy Society. Councillor Glyn Richards, Chairman of South Brent Parish Council, was also in attendance.
Rupert Hancock, treasurer of the South Brent Community Energy Society, said: “Following a very successful winter with our wind turbine near Marley Head, we have been able to make a number of significant grants to village businesses and organisations this year. The installation of solar panels on Willow House, as well as Windward House – which is also in South Brent and part of Centrum Care Group - were the first to be completed. Next in line is the Primary School, with panels due to be installed this summer.”
Janice Federer, registered manager of Willow House, said: “It was wonderful to come together and celebrate the installation of solar panels with our residents, the local community, and South Brent Community Energy. Their generous donation has empowered us to make this significant and positive investment in our homes. Many residents and their families have expressed their delight at seeing our commitment to further enhancing our facilities.”
Centrum Care Homes director Tushar Shah added: “The grant from the local community marks the beginning of our journey to becoming a net zero provider. Utilities are a significant expense for our homes, and the installation of solar panels will reduce our energy bills by 35 per cent. The savings will enable us to invest in additional green technologies across our other homes, furthering our commitment to sustainability.”
