Sports clubs secure energy saving funding

Friday, 20 December 2024 14:00

Four sports clubs in the Vale will share more than £67,000 to install new greener energy systems.

They're among nearly a hundred clubs from across the country to have secured energy saving grants from Sport Wales.

Among those that will benefit is Windsor Tennis Club in Penarth, which currently doesn't have any heating in its clubhouse.

It's now secured £4,424 to install a sustainable heating system and a large butt, which will collect rainwater to water the grounds.

Brian Davies, Sport Wales chief executive, said: "We know that rising energy bills can impact clubs in a really significant way, and the knock-on effects of this can mean increased costs for participants."

"Over the last two years, £3.1m worth of Energy Saving Grants have now benefited a total of 175 sports clubs."

"Rising energy bills are threatening the very existence of some clubs, so we're thrilled to help protect their future so that they can continue offering vital services to people in their local communities."

"Enabling clubs in Wales to improve their sustainability will also go a long way to lessening the impact of sport in Wales on climate change and the environment."

Most of the successful grants will go towards installing solar panels - that includes Caerau Ely FC, who reached the last sixteen of this season's Welsh Cup.

The Cymru South club has received £19,734, which will not only enable them to lower their energy bills, but will ensure free sessions can continue over the half-term holidays.

£18,658 goes to Millwood Bowling Club in Barry, who also plan to install solar panels on their clubhouse as well as upgrading to a more sustainable heating system.

But the biggest pot in the Vale goes to the Cowbridge Squash Rackets Club, who receive £24,544 to install more sustainable heating and hot water sources, along with new windows and doors, and solar panels for their clubhouse.

The improvements, according to Sport Wales, will help them keep their building warm "in a financially and environmentally sustainable way."

Across Wales, around £1.7 million has been awarded from the Energy Saving Grant, which was first introduced last year and was offered again this year due to high demand, with clubs able to apply for up to £25,000.

It's been made possible by £8 million of Welsh Government funding allocated to Sport Wales for the current financial year.

Sports minister Jack Sargeant said: "Funding the Energy Saving Grants demonstrates how we are delivering our Programme for Government commitments to invest in sports facilities and support grassroots clubs."

"It's an investment in our clubs' long-term futures, which is in turn an investment in providing inclusive, accessible and sustainable opportunities for people across Wales to enjoy both the physical and mental health benefits of sport."

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