Taunton Minster, a historic Grade I-listed church in Somerset, has been awarded an £18,000 grant from the Church of England’s national Demonstrator Grant programme to help reduce its carbon footprint and transition to greener energy solutions.
This funding marks the first stage in an ambitious plan to retrofit the church with low-carbon heating and energy systems, positioning Taunton Minster as a model for sustainability within the Diocese of Bath and Wells and beyond.
Dan Wills, the diocese’s net zero adviser, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative: “Taunton Minster offers an inspiring example of how a large, cherished church can realistically move toward net zero emissions. Their progress will provide invaluable guidance and encouragement for other parishes aiming to achieve similar goals.”
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The church’s environmental task force, led by Nicola Johnson, has already initiated several energy-saving projects. Johnson highlighted the significance of this grant: “Receiving this funding at stage one empowers us to advance our environmental mission and share practical insights with other churches. Our faith calls us to care for creation, and this project embodies that responsibility.”
The grant enables Taunton Minster to access expert consultancy on low-carbon heating options and offers support in securing the necessary 50 percent match funding for subsequent capital investments. Potential solutions being explored include air-source heat pumps, infra-red and under-pew heating, solar panels, and battery storage systems.
In addition to planning new energy infrastructure, the project will manage the replacement timeline of the existing gas boiler, installed in 2013, and oversee design, procurement, and installation strategies.
Murray Cochrane, a member of the environmental task force, emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative: “We aim to create an inclusive project that not only advances our own sustainability but also serves as a resource for other churches. Sharing knowledge and support will benefit the entire community.”
Covering 558 churches and 180 schools across Somerset, the Diocese of Bath and Wells serves about one million people, including communities in Portishead, Crewkerne, Minehead, and Frome.
Through Taunton Minster’s pioneering effort, the church demonstrates a committed step toward environmental stewardship, inspiring faith communities to embrace practical climate action.