A CENTRE received funding to reduce energy costs and provide a sustainable power source to protect residents in future.

The Northern Powergrid Foundation, established by Northern Powergrid, the company responsible for the electricity distribution network powering the lives of eight million across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire, provided £20,000 to Hexham Community Centre to fund solar panels and battery storage.

This will provide emergency power regardless of any disruption to the mains power supply. The solar panels will consist of 36 units providing an output of 365 Wp per panel.

This will save approximately £3,800 per year and provide an emergency back-up system during a power cut.

The funding, which was successful on the grounds it would guarantee the operational benefits of the community centre during any potential energy crisis, is cost-effective and will support all who enjoy the centre's services.

Hexham Community Centre, part of the Hexham and Tynedale Community Trust, is one of the North East's largest community centres, with the potential to accommodate more than 200 individuals.

The centre has already established itself as a refuge for emergency flood responses and in the winter of 2022 and 2023 participated in the Warm Places Programme in Hexham.

Guy Opperman MP, who supported his community with its funding application and helped present the cheque to Hexham Community Centre, said: “I am delighted that Hexham Community Centre has achieved this £20,000 grant.

“This partnership work will make a massive difference to Hexham. I want to thank all the communities who have supported my campaign, ensuring that community resilience is improved for future weather events."

Tom Pearson, vice chairperson and trustee of the community centre, said: “Hexham Community Centre is an emergency hub for flooding and extreme weather conditions. Inclusion of a power source will be a great resource towards dealing with emergency incidents.”

Jodie Coe, Northern Powergrid’s director of people and change and Louise Lowes, Northern Powergrid’s head of customer services, both Northern Powergrid Foundation Trustees, said: “As representatives of The Northern Powergrid Foundation we’re delighted to support the community centre and provide funding to help keep customers connected in the event of a power cut or emergency situation."