A Brighter, Greener Future for Askwith Village Hall

Askwith Village Hall has always been the beating heart of its community, a place where friendships are made, ideas are shared, and traditions thrive. More than that, it’s a lifeline in times of need. From lively quiz nights and harvest suppers to yoga classes and school events, the hall brings people together in countless ways. But behind the scenes, rising energy costs and reliance on oil were making it harder to keep the doors open, especially during the colder months.

Determined to secure its future and continue supporting the village, the hall set out on an ambitious journey to go clean and green. Thanks to a generous £19,200 grant from the Northern Powergrid Foundation, that vision is starting to become a reality.

The Transition to Solar

A building with solar panels on the roof with cars parked in front of it With the installation of solar panels, battery storage, and a converter, Askwith Village Hall has taken a

bold step into the future. This renewable energy system will lower its carbon footprint, helping protect the environment for generations to come. It will also reduce running costs, making the hall more affordable and accessible for everyone, while providing energy security for the community during powercuts and shielding the community from unpredictable oil and electricity prices.

What This Means for the Community

Kelly and Helen standing inside of the village hall with wooden ceilings that have grey sound barriers and a giant glitter ball in the centre. The benefits go far beyond the building itself. Lower operational costs mean the hall can open more frequently, even in winter, and offer a wider range of services. Hire fees can be reduced, supporting local businesses and community groups. The hall will also serve as a warm bank for the elderly and vulnerable during cold spells and act as a refuge during power cuts or other emergencies, offering a safe, warm, and powered space for those in need. Every group that uses the hall will feel the impact of this project. And in times of crisis, the hall will stand as a safe, welcoming meeting point for the whole community.

Karl and Kelly stood outside of the village hall Karl Lenton, Village Hall Director, said:
"This project is a game-changer for Askwith. It means we can keep the hall open and welcoming all year round without worrying about spiralling energy costs. More importantly, it gives us the ability to support our community when they need us most, whether that’s during a power cut or simply providing a warm space in winter."

Kelly Noon, Northern Powergrid Regional Customer Service Support Lead, added:
"Community hubs like Askwith Village Hall play a vital role in keeping people safe and connected during challenging times. By the foundation supporting projects like this, they’re helping create spaces that are resilient, sustainable, and ready to offer comfort and security when it matters most."

A Sustainable Legacy

This project isn’t just about solar panels, it’s about creating a sustainable, inclusive space where the community can thrive. By embracing innovation and renewable energy, Askwith Village Hall is leading the way in rural sustainability and proving that small villages can make a big difference.