Hospice Installs Solar Panels to Reduce Expenses

Solar panels have been installed at a hospice as part of an effort to decrease energy expenditures. These panels were fitted at Eden Valley and Jigsaw Children’s Hospice in Carlisle. The initiative received financial backing from funds bequeathed in wills and a “significant donation” from a supporter. The charity’s trustees have indicated that this move is part of their broader strategy to establish the hospice as the most carbon-neutral facility of its kind in the country. Panels have been placed in various locations with the expectation of lowering heating costs, particularly during the winter season. The hospice, which provides care for adults and children with life-limiting illnesses, relies on donations for 80% of its operational costs. It has stated that increasing energy bills have “created a new set of challenges.” Trustee James Porter commented: “As well as the solar panels we are looking at other ways our energy costs can be controlled so we can reduce the impact we have on the environment.” Jim Main, from the installer APD Ltd, added: “Our usual environments are large industrial sites so seeing the dedication and care offered by all the staff here has been inspirational.” He further noted: “This is phase one of the project and we look forward to mapping out phase two with the aim of making the site the most energy optimised and carbon neutral Hospice in the country.”