The solar panels were switched on for the first time by the Very Reverend Stephen Lake, Dean of Gloucester. The Cathedral’s famous tower was illuminated green in celebration.

The solar initiative forms a key part of the Cathedral’s Project Pilgrim, supported by a £4.16million grant from HLF, the first phase of major plans to conserve the building and tell the stories of the communities which have passed through its doors.

This promises to be a bright – and green – future for the much-loved landmark.

Stephen Boyce, Chair of the South West Committee, National Lottery Heritage Fund

Did you know?

• Gloucester Cathedral is nearly 1,000 years old.
• The Cathedral is the resting place of King Edward II and the site of Henry III’s coronation in 1216.
• A total of 150 solar panels have been installed on the Cathedral’s nave roof and will be almost invisible from the ground.
• The system will generate 27,500kW of energy a year, enough to power seven semi-detached houses or make 250,000 cups of tea.
• Over 120 individuals donated to the project by ‘sponsoring’ a solar panel.

Stephen Boyce, Chair of the South West Committee, said: “In continuous use since the 11th century, Gloucester Cathedral has truly stood the test of time, standing witness to numerous inventions and technologies over the centuries. So it’s fantastic to see that, thanks to National Lottery players, the Cathedral has incorporated one of those technologies into what promises to be a bright – and green – future for the much-loved landmark.”

Project Pilgrim

As well as supporting a sustainable energy source for the Cathedral, HLF’s investment into Project Pilgrim will enable:

• the creation of a new Cathedral green to provide a public space in the historic heart of the city
• conservation of the 15th-century Lady Chapel and its magnificent stained glass
• provision of a new entrance and welcome area and improvements to access and storytelling across the site
• training for apprentice stonemasons and volunteers alongside a learning programme and opportunities for volunteers

Stephen Boyce added: “We’re delighted to support Project Pilgrim and look forward to celebrating its continuing success.”