New solar panels help cut Settle pool’s electric bill

A SECOND bank of solar panels has been installed on Settle Swimming Pool roof, generating more electricity and so helping cut the pool’s fuel bills.

The project was funded by the £21,000 grant awarded in the second round of the Swimming Pool Support Fund administered by Sport England. This round of funding was aimed at making pools across the country more energy efficient.

Settle Pool had earlier been turned down for a grant in the first round of funding to help pools facing rising costs and was facing an uncertain future.

The installation of the new bank of panels took place in early June, meaning the effect will be felt immediately during the summer months, when most electricity will be generated. The first bank of panels on the rear roof was installed during the redevelopment work in 2022.

Pool finances have also been boosted recently by the expected reduction in the latest gas bill as a result of the fall in wholesale gas prices. An update on the overall financial situation will be given to the pool annual meeting to be held on Thursday July 18 starting at 7pm .