British Library Installs Innovative Solar Tech to Decarbonise Heat

The British Library and CBRE Global Workplace Solutions have commissioned Naked Energy to deliver the UK’s largest solar heat project to accelerate the public building’s transition to renewable energy.

The installation comprises 950 solar collectors across 712.5m2 of the library’s roof space. It is expected to reduce the building’s CO2 emissions by 55 tonnes and generate 216 MWh of energy annually, the equivalent of powering and heating a community centre for a year.

The technology will supply sanitary hot water and space heating for the British Library's staff and visitors. The collectors will also be used to help to maintain the precise temperature and humidity conditions needed to preserve the library's collection.
 
The low-profile design does not disrupt the library’s architecture and remains invisible from street level.

Patrick Dixon, Director of Estates and Construction at the British Library, said: “This project is part of the Library’s commitment to environmental action and we were pleased to have formally launched our new Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy during Green Libraries Week."

Jon Benford, Managing Director at CBRE GWS, added: “We’re excited to be delivering the largest solar heat installation project in the UK for our client, the British Library, and supporting such an iconic British institution on their net zero journey. Working towards net zero emissions in a Grade 1 listed English Heritage building comes with its own unique challenges, and we’re proud of the role this project will play in both preserving the past and protecting the future.”