Holy Trinity Church Goes Green with Electric Under-Pew Heaters
Holy Trinity church in Sibford has taken a significant step towards sustainability by replacing its oil-fired boiler with electric under-pew heaters. The move is part of the Church of England's Net Zero 2030 Program, aiming to reduce carbon emissions from church buildings and transport by the end of this decade.
The previous boiler was unreliable and costly, with annual oil expenses reaching approximately $2,600. The church received a grant from the Boiler Replacement Hardship Grant Fund, offering up to $58,000 for low-carbon heating solutions. This funding, along with support from the Church of England's Net Zero Program, enabled the replacement of the old system with 121 efficient under-pew heaters.
The new heating system is expected to make the church building net zero carbon and significantly reduce heating costs. David Gill, the church treasurer, recommends proactivity in addressing church heating systems to avoid unexpected failures. The Church of St Peter and St Paul in Northleach, England, has also successfully made the switch to electric under-pew heating using a grant from the same Net-Zero programme. Their project cost around $50,000, with grants covering the majority of the expenses.
Holy Trinity church in Sibford has demonstrated its commitment to protecting God's creation by investing in a more efficient heating system. With the support of the Church of England's Net Zero 2030 Program and relevant grant funds, the church has taken a practical step towards reducing its carbon footprint and lowering heating costs.
