Willow House Care Home Celebrates Installation of Solar Panels

Willow House care home, a valued part of the Centrum Care Group, is thrilled to announce the successful installation of solar panels. This significant development has been generously part-funded by the South Brent Community Energy Society, marking a pivotal step towards generating renewable electricity and reducing the carbon footprint of South Brent. As a key employer in the community, Willow House is proud to contribute to the wider economic and environmental sustainability of the area.

Rupert Hancock, Treasurer of the South Brent Community Energy Society, shared his enthusiasm, stating, "Following a very successful winter with our wind turbine near Marley Head, we have been able to make a number of significant grants to village businesses and organisations this year. The installation of solar panels on Willow House, as well as Windward House – which is also in South Brent and part of Centrum Care Group - were the first to be completed. Next in line is the Primary School, with panels due to be installed this summer."

Peter Kelly, Chair of the Society, added, "Although the wind turbine has not proven to be as reliable as we had hoped, in the course of the 11 years of operation, the Society has been able to support many local energy-saving projects for the community, and we look forward to supporting more."

The solar panels were celebrated with an event held at Willow House Garden on July 12, 2024, which saw the participation of residents, the care team, members of the local community, and representatives from the South Brent Community Energy Society. Councillor Glyn Richards, Chairman of South Brent Parish Council, was also present to mark the occasion.

Janice Federer, Registered Manager of Willow House, expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, "It was wonderful to come together and celebrate the installation of solar panels with our residents, the local community, and South Brent Community Energy. Their generous donation has empowered us to make this significant and positive investment in our homes. Many residents and their families have expressed their delight at seeing our commitment to further enhancing our facilities."

Tushar Shah, Director of Centrum Care Homes, highlighted the broader impact of this initiative, saying, "The grant from the local community marks the beginning of our journey to becoming a net zero provider. Utilities are a significant expense for our homes, and the installation of solar panels will reduce our energy bills by 35%. The savings will enable us to invest in additional green technologies across our other homes, furthering our commitment to sustainability."