The Ben Rhydding (De Mohicanen) Scout and Guide Group is pleased to announce that its Group Headquarters is now powered by solar power!
n November 2023, the Scout & Guide Group placed a call out to the community seeking support to install solar panels on its Headquarters roof. This was part of the group's efforts to reduce their impact on the environment and pursue an ambition for their Headquarters to become net zero in operations.
As it is a charitable organisation, the successful installation was made possible through the generous contributions of many individuals and businesses in the community. This included Ilkley Town Council Green Space & Sustainability Fund, Clip & Climb Ilkley, the Guides and Brownies, and a large number of individuals and families. The group want to pass on a big thank you for everyone’s generosity and support.
Further information on the fundraising campaign, including the ‘Sponsor a panel’ program, is available at www.justgiving.com/campaign/brscoutguides-solar
The system was installed and comprises:
38 x 430W solar panels with optimisers and racking system
2 x 5.8kWh battery installed in the roof space
10kW hybrid inverter
Associated cabling and connections etc

This system enables the group to self use the solar power generated when the headquarters are in use during daylight hours, charge the two batteries with solar power during the day and use the power at night, and export excess power back into the grid for use by the wider community.
The group is very proud to be able to use its roof to generate renewable energy and lower its carbon footprint as well as engage Scout & Guide groups on sustainability initiatives, build resilience to their power supply and importantly be part of the wider community action to mitigate climate change. Solar panels will also reduce the energy bills allowing the group to invest more into young people and activities.
In 3 short wintery months they have generated 3.17 Mwh of renewable energy and saved over 2 tonnes of carbon – and counting! On average they will generate 39kWh of renewable energy per day. 21% of this will be used directly in the property, 20% will be used to charge the battery for later use and the remaining 59% will be exported to the grid. Effectively making the headquarters net zero in operation!
The group would also like to thank P4 Solar who worked collaboratively to design a system that maximised the solar output of the roof, sought to capitalise on pay back periods and export opportunities - all whilst always being conscious of budget and operational constraints. P4 Solar went above and beyond to support.
You can read more about the Group’s solar system including about the design and installation process and technical specifications on the P4 Solar website https://p4solar.co.uk/case-study/ben-rhydding-de-mohicanen-scout-guide-group/

Spring/Summer line-up at Ilkley Playhouse
Ilkley Manor House reopens for Spring with a culture-packed programme
Ilkley Beer Festival celebrates a successful year of beer, community and charity
Police appeal following serious collision in Ilkley
Beauty in Bloom team all share the same passion
Two weeks until 36th Ilkley Moor Fell Race
1,000 Smiles: Pateley Bridge woman wins £1,000 prize
Children’s books inspires Ilkley Carnival creative competition!
Applications invited for Tesco funding scheme in Ilkley
Voices needed for Ilkley production of The Prince of Egypt
Phase 2 of Ilkley Fountain to enhance focal point
Ilkley man banned from running company appears in court
Two firms fined after racking collapse killed two workers
Car parking changes - Ilkley Town Council wants your feedback!
Yorkshire participants need for Channel 4's The Dog House
Ilkley’s Outside the Box joins neighbouring Otley community
Westbourne Spice named Best Family Friendly Restaurant of the Year
Children's charity secures partnership with Ilkley's Pendle Sportswear
Virtuoso violinist returns by popular demand
Ilkley couple shares marriage tips that stand the test of time


