From Community Hall to Crisis Refuge: Lowes Barn Community Project Powers Up Durham 

Lowes Barn Community Project has been awarded £20,000 by the Northern Powergrid Foundation to install solar panels, battery storage, and a hybrid inverter at Merryoaks Community Hall in Durham, transforming the site into a resilient hub for local residents during power outages. 

Merryoaks Community Hall was built in 2023 on the site of the former Neville's Cross Bowls Club, following years of local campaigning for a dedicated community space. Established as a charity, the hall was designed to serve the residents of Neville’s Cross and surrounding areas, offering a welcoming, volunteer-run hub for events, activities, and support services. Known as “The People’s Place,” it has quickly become a vital part of the community, fostering connection, inclusion, and resilience. 

Durham faces growing concerns around energy resilience, particularly for vulnerable residents affected by fuel poverty, health conditions, and social isolation. Recent storms have had in impact in the area, leaving many residents anxious about how they would cope during prolonged outages, especially in winter. 

To address these challenges, Lowes Barn Community Project is equipping Merryoaks Community Hall with renewable energy technology that allows it to operate independently of the mains electricity supply. The installation includes: 

  • Additional solar photovoltaic (PV) panels 

  • A battery storage system 

  • A hybrid inverter to manage energy flow 

This upgrade will enable the centre to remain open during power cuts, offering heat, lighting, hot refreshments, and charging facilities for mobile phones and medical equipment. 

Susan Walker, Trustee of Lowes Barn Community Project, said: 
“Our vision is to make Merryoaks Community Hall a dependable place of safety. With this funding, we can provide a warm, welcoming environment where people can stay connected and secure during emergencies.” 

The project not only supports immediate crisis response but also contributes to long-term sustainability. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering energy costs, the centre can reinvest savings into community services and activities. 

Honor Morton from the Northern Powergrid Foundation visited the site and shared: 
“This project is a shining example of what happens when communities come together with purpose and vision. It’s not just about energy, it’s about building resilience, fostering inclusion, and showing care for one another. We’re proud to support Merryoaks Community Hall as it grows into a vital hub of safety, sustainability, and connection for the people of Durham’’ 

The Northern Powergrid Foundation is committed to empowering communities across the North East, Yorkshire, and northern Lincolnshire. In alignment with Northern Powergrid’s ambition to be a force for good, the Foundation offers funding of up to £20,000 for community-led energy resilience projects that strengthen local sustainability and preparedness in emergencies such as long duration powercuts.