Ilkley Rugby Club
How We Helped
Ilkley Rugby Football Union (RFU) is one of the largest amateur rugby clubs in the area, deeply rooted in the local community. Located at Stacks Field on Denton Road, Ilkley, the club boasts five match pitches, changing rooms, a bar, a kitchen, and a function room. These facilities provide excellent sporting and leisure opportunities for the community. On match days, the club attracts over 300 visitors, with games taking place against the beautiful backdrop of the iconic Ilkley Cow and Calf Moors.
However, Ilkley RFU faced a significant challenge with its rising energy bills. Hosting junior teams from under 7s to under 16s, as well as a first, second, third, and Colts teams, the club experiences high levels of activity and energy usage. This resulted in steep utility costs that threatened the financial sustainability of the club. Recognising the impact Ilkley RFU has on the local community, our team of professional solar panel installers in Ilkley was eager to step in and offer a solution.
Key Details
Initial Discussions
Justin Hewitt, a P4 Solar Project Manager and former club captain, initiated the relationship with Ilkley RFU. After reviewing the club’s energy consumption patterns, it became evident that their electricity usage was driving substantial monthly costs. Identifying the need for a sustainable energy solution, we engaged in discussions and board meetings with the club’s leadership to explore a way forward with commercial solar panels in Yorkshire. Subsequently, P4 Solar’s engineering team conducted a comprehensive site visit to gather essential information, including energy usage data, roof measurements, and infrastructure details, laying the groundwork for an effective solar system design.
System Design
After assessing the site, including the club’s roof measurements, DC and AC cable routing, and inverter placement, we developed a tailored solar solution. Importantly, the club's architecture is truly remarkable, featuring unique design elements that differ from standard pitched roofs. As such, preserving the aesthetics of the building was a key consideration in our design approach. To meet the requirements of aesthetics and performance, we proposed installing 48 455W all-black AIKO solar panels. These panels offer exceptional efficiency while maintaining a visually appealing design. By combining these attributes, we were able to design an impressive 21.8 kWp solar system that aligns with both the club's energy needs and its architectural elegance.
The Result
The installation has already made a significant impact, generating over 1,000 kWh of electricity since its completion. Over the next 25 years, the solar system is projected to deliver:
£311,362 in electricity cost savings.
£33,586 in export payments.
118,671kg of CO2 savings.
Equivalent of 5,394 trees planted.
These savings will help the club redirect funds toward supporting its players and enhancing community engagement.
Continued Support
P4 Solar’s commitment to Ilkley RFU extends beyond the installation. We are offering free solar and battery storage consultations to all club members. Additionally, for every installation resulting from a consultation, P4 Solar will donate £250 to Ilkley RFU, ensuring the club continues to benefit from the partnership. Together, we’re powering a brighter, more sustainable future for Ilkley RFU and the wider community.
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