The new Hartlepool rugby football club (HRFC) panels are (455W each) and – together with 56.4kW of battery storage – are capable of generating approximately 59,000kWh of clean electricity each year—meeting around 90% of the club’s annual electricity demand.
Funding for the ambitious project came from the Enovert Community Trust which awarded the club a £50,000 grant through the Landfill Communities Fund (LCF), enabling the successful installation of the major renewable energy system.
A spokesperson said: “The solar project was completed following a comprehensive energy audit and the implementation of all practical low-cost energy efficiency measures. The new solar PV system now provides the long-term solution needed to reduce operating costs, improve environmental sustainability, and secure the future of one of Hartlepool’s most important community sports clubs.”
They went on: “The installation is expected to reduce the club’s carbon emissions by 15 tonnes of CO₂ each year—equivalent to planting 2,872 trees—while saving approximately £11,800 annually in electricity costs. Those savings will be reinvested directly into the club’s community programmes, helping HRFC continue to provide free rugby for more than 350 children, maintain affordable adult memberships, and deliver a wide range of inclusive activities throughout the week. These include walking rugby, social touch rugby, senior rugby, community darts teams, charity events, and opportunities for people of all ages to participate in sport and social activities.”
The spokesperson added: “The improved financial resilience also enables the clubhouse to remain open for longer periods, providing a warm, welcoming and affordable community space for older residents, local groups, and those affected by fuel poverty during the winter months. The addition of battery storage has further strengthened the clubhouse’s ability to act as a resilient community hub during periods of severe weather or temporary power outages.”
Stewart Hind, chair of Hartlepool Rugby Football Club, said: “On behalf of everyone at Hartlepool Rugby Football Club, I would like to thank Enovert Community for its incredible support – this £50,000 grant has made a lasting difference to our club and the wider community. The installation of our new solar energy system has significantly reduced our carbon footprint while making the club far more financially sustainable. Most importantly, it has helped secure the future of free rugby for more than 350 children, ensured we can continue to offer affordable memberships, and strengthened our role as a welcoming community hub for people across Hartlepool.”
He added: “We are extremely grateful to Enovert Community for investing in our vision and helping us create a greener, stronger and more sustainable future for generations to come.”
