Taunton Minster in Somerset is advancing its commitment to environmental sustainability after securing an £18,000 grant from the Church of England’s national Demonstrator Grant programme. This funding supports churches in reducing fossil fuel dependence and enhancing energy efficiency.
As a Grade I-listed building, Taunton Minster will develop a comprehensive retrofit plan aimed at updating heating and energy systems to greener alternatives. Beyond its own improvements, the church will serve as a model and resource hub for other parishes across the Diocese of Bath and Wells and beyond.
Dan Wills, net zero adviser for the Diocese of Bath and Wells, commented, “Selecting Taunton Minster as a Demonstrator Church allows us to explore practical pathways to achieving net zero emissions in significant heritage buildings. Their experiences will guide other parishes on achievable steps and available support.”
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Situated in Taunton’s town center, the Minster has an active environmental task force already implementing measures to conserve energy. Nicola Johnson, head of the church’s environmental team, expressed enthusiasm about the grant: “This award enables us to advance our sustainability projects and share insights with other churches, helping them make tangible progress toward net zero. The church plays a vital role in our community and must also honor its responsibility to care for creation.”
The initial phase of funding grants Taunton Minster expert consultation on low-carbon heating options and assists in securing the mandatory 50% match funding for future capital investments. The planning process will evaluate solutions such as air-source heat pumps, infra-red or under-pew heating, solar panels, and energy storage batteries.
Additionally, the grant supports design development, procurement strategies, and advice on replacing the current gas boiler, installed in 2013, at the optimal time.
Murray Cochrane from the environmental task force noted the collaborative intent behind the project: “Early in our journey, finding reliable advice was challenging. Now, we’re excited to be a source of guidance for others. Knowledge exchange benefits all involved.”
The Diocese of Bath and Wells oversees 558 churches and 180 schools serving approximately one million people across areas including Portishead, Crewkerne, Minehead, and Frome.