Sustainable Sport and Community Energy Scheme, Hartlepool Rugby Football Club

This is a project to install a solar array at Hartlepool Rugby Football Club (HRFC).

The club plans to install a 175-panel (455W each) solar array with 56.4 kW of battery storage to generate around 59,000 kWh of clean electricity per year, covering approximately 90% of the club’s annual energy use. Following a full energy audit and completion of all low-cost efficiency measures, solar PV is the essential next step to securing the club’s long-term sustainability. The project will cut carbon emissions by 15 tonnes/year, save £11,800 annually, and protect the affordability of free junior rugby, low-cost memberships, and warm, safe community facilities for Hartlepool residents.

This project will deliver significant benefits to residents of Hartlepool. The savings from the installation of the solar panels are critical to protecting the affordability of the club’s programmes in a town where child poverty, fuel poverty and poor health outcomes are substantially above national averages. The financial stability provided by lower energy costs will allow HRFC to keep junior rugby completely free, maintain low adult membership fees, and continue offering inclusive, seven-day-a-week activities such as walking rugby, social touch rugby, senior rugby, community darts teams and charity events. The project will also enable the club to extend daytime opening hours, providing a warm, safe and low-cost space for older residents, pensioner social groups and people struggling with heating their homes, acting as a community warm hub during winter months.
Environmental considerations: The project follows a full independent energy audit, which recommended solar as the next step after completing all viable efficiency measures, including LED lighting and insulation improvements. The project’s key goal is reducing the club’s negative environmental footprint. This is evidenced by the club eradicating 90% of its carbon intensive, grid-based energy use, post project. This is the equivalent of planting 2,872 trees! The installation will be carried out by local MCS-certified contractor, minimising travel-related emissions and supporting the local economy. All packaging, redundant electrical components and installation waste will be recycled or responsibly disposed of in line with industry standards.

Hard to reach considerations: The main objective is supporting those underrepresented in sport, especially those from low-income households. The town faces significant deprivation, with most neighbourhoods in IMD Decile 1 (the most deprived 10% of England) and some areas in the bottom 1% nationally, so reducing barriers is essential. Junior rugby is free, adult membership is £30/year, and community sessions such as touch rugby and walking rugby are free or low-cost. This ensures families with limited means can access regular activity. The club is fully accessible, with step-free access and suitable indoor facilities, supporting older adults and residents with mobility needs.