Riverside Leisure Centre’s new solar installation is now live, marking what Norwich City Council has called a “huge step” towards a greener Norwich.
Over 700 solar panels have been fitted across the centre’s roof and its car park, helping to cut carbon emissions and reduce the leisure centre’s electricity bills by around a third. A new roof and modernised building management system have also formed part of the project in a boost to overall energy efficiency.
The new installation has also secured the future of the leisure centre, which had more than 350,000 visits last year and has a social value estimated to be at least £2.5 million each year. It offers swimming lessons, supports the Go4Less scheme and offers exercise referrals, including for cancer rehabilitation, Age UK and Special Education Needs.
Councillor Emma Hampton, portfolio holder for climate change and environment, described the initiative as a “shining example of how we’re investing in a Net Zero Norwich”. Hampton continued: “By harnessing solar power, we’re not only cutting emissions—we’re making vital public facilities more resilient and cost-effective.”
