Members of the Totnes community and local sustainability leaders gathered last week (Fri 23) to celebrate the successful launch of a community-funded solar installation at The Mansion, with prosecco, nibbles and the unveiling of a unique piece of community artwork created by its own in-house pottery collective led by Georgi Makes of Studio 2 Pottery,
The celebration marked the completion of a project that saw77 solar panels installed on the roof of Totnes Library, funded by local people with zero grants. Guests were invited to see the first ceramic tiles that will form part of a permanent artwork inside the building, recognising donors who helped make the project possible.
Among those in attendance were local donors Brian and Katha who praised the dedication of the volunteers behind the project and the spirit of collaboration that brought it to life. Members of the volunteer “Solar Squad” who led the fundraising and delivery of the installation also took a moment to enjoy the milestone, chatting, laughing and reflecting on the months of work that led to Friday’s celebration. Local author and activist Rob Hobkins was also in attendance to celebrate the launch.
Jackie Minton from the Mansion said the project was rooted firmly in community support.
“We went out into the community and asked people to donate,” she said. “Several local businesses including Totnes Cinema, The Bull, and many other different organisations and community groups within the Mansion donated, and several private individuals.
“Each donated at least £450, and in return received a commemorative ceramic plaque.”
Within nine months, the community raised over £32,500, enough to fund all 77 panels on the roof.
Ms Minton also praised Bloom Renewables, who delivered the installation.
“Bloom Renewables have been absolutely immense in getting this sorted for us,” she said. “They looked into how to get the system connected to the grid, which was quite tricky to begin with, and they guided us through the whole process.”
The solar system has been operational since mid-October and is already making a difference.
“It’s thought to have saved over £500 so far, with projected savings of around £7,000 a year,” Ms Minton said. “That’s roughly a quarter of our annual energy bill, most of which will be generated over the summer months.”
She noted that the building was particularly well suited to solar.
“The flat roof is perfect for it,” she said. “It’s a really open array, so 77 panels fit on it beautifully. It’s easy to maintain too – as long as we keep the seagulls off it!”
The Mansion, which was originally a school, now houses Totnes Library and Rainbow Nursery in newer buildings to the rear, alongside a wide range of community organisations.
The completed solar installation is expected to play a key role in securing the building’s long-term financial sustainability while reducing its environmental impact.
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