An interview with Matt from Wick Sports Ground
We asked Matt, treasurer of Wick Sports Ground, why they chose to partner with Bristol Energy Cooperative.
Can you tell us a little bit more about your organisation?
Wick Sports Ground Committee is a small group of dedicated volunteers who are responsible for the management of the sports ground at Oldbury Lane in Wick, Bristol. The Committee has overseen the development of the grounds for over 50 years, which was left in trust for the ‘purposes of sport’, on a limited budget with most improvements being undertaken on a voluntary basis.
Wicks Sports Grounds provides the only community sporting facilities in the area, which covers Wick, Abson, Doyton, Hinton and as far as Marshfield. The Committee’s objective is to encourage healthy lifestyle by providing sporting and leisure opportunities to its members and the local community in a supportive environment.
Why did you want to add the solar panels?
“Firstly we felt we were spending a lot on electricity and we wanted a better deal. Secondly we wanted to have green credentials within the community. The ‘greenness’ of our building is certainly on our agenda. We make sure that the lights are switched off, and we’re thinking of switching to push taps so that people do not leave the taps on. Additionally, as a non-profit, when we are applying for grants, this green badge is a real selling point.”
What was the process of installation like?
The installation process went very smoothly.
What do you plan to do with the money that you save from the solar installation?
“We’re a not-for-profit and so the money we save on electricity will go back into the sports facility, for instance for repairs and maintenance.”
Would you recommend that other organisations do the same?
“I would recommend that other organisations install solar panels too, and whenever I get the opportunity I let other community centres know about Bristol Energy Cooperative and this opportunity.”
Do you have anything else to add?
“A huge selling point for us was that Bristol Energy Cooperative handled the whole thing. We’re run by volunteers so we do not have the resources to manage the system so it is brilliant that they take care of everything which makes it very easy for us.”
