Associated Clean Technologies (ACT) is proud to present our Solar PV Installation at York Minster, the second-largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe and one of the few cathedrals with Museum Accreditation. The Grade I listed status of York Minster made this project uniquely challenging and rewarding.

Appointed as PV Specialists in June 2024, ACT collaborated with Caroe Architects and Max Fordham to finalise the PV system design. This design met the stringent requirements of York Minster's insurance company and the Fabric Advisory Committee.

The installation features 184 Solarwatt 440Wp modules, creating an 80.96 kWp system on the south quire roof. This system is expected to generate approximately 70,000 kWh of energy annually, covering a third of the Minster’s electricity needs.

To monitor and ensure the safety of the system, we selected SolarEdge Technologies equipment, including two 33.3kW inverters. These inverters not only enhance the system's efficiency but also future-proof the site for potential battery storage.

Designing a mounting system for the existing lead roof, with its unique features such as lead rolls, hatches, and laps, required a bespoke solution. ACT worked closely with K2 Mounting Systems to develop and install a custom solution, which was reviewed and approved by Caroe Architects and the wider design team.

The cable routing presented significant challenges, necessitating a large team of electricians and steeplejacks to guide the cable along a meticulously planned route. This route was pre-approved by the Minster's Fabric Advisory Committee.

Installing around 175 Nicholson posts was a complex task, requiring pre-fabrication and careful installation. The winter installation posed additional risks, including weather-related delays and the need for a 2-hour fire watch after each post installation, limiting daily work hours.

Despite these challenges, ACT and our dedicated teams completed the installation on schedule and within budget. This project sets a precedent for renewable energy adoption in historic sites, demonstrating that if York Minster can achieve this, any site can.