In October 2024, the Increase project organised an online workshop on heritage and solar PV. It brought together diverse stakeholders to discuss the integration of solar PV in urban areas, with a focus on culturally and historically sensitive sites. Organised by Increase partners EBC, EuropeOn, and SolarPower EuropeSolarPower Europe, the event provided a platform for heritage conservation experts, policymakers, experts from the cultural sector, and representatives from UNESCO and other key organisations, to share insights and strategies for balancing sustainability goals with heritage preservation.
The demand for renewable energy solutions has risen sharply in Europe, driven by the ongoing energy crisis, and commitments to decarbonisation. However, integrating solar PV systems into heritage sites presents unique challenges. The discussions concentrate on the topics of balancing aesthetics and sustainability objectives, community engagement, legislation and permitting, and financial aspects.
Participants emphasised the importance of preserving the cultural and architectural integrity of heritage buildings, while exploring innovative solar PV technologies like building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). Anti-glare coatings and custom designs were cited as solutions that can align with aesthetic requirements, thus preserving the visual and structural integrity of heritage sites.
The workshop stressed the importance of participatory approaches, ensuring that local communities understand and support solar PV projects in heritage areas. This approach was exemplified by the BRUSK Museum project in Bruges, where creative solutions were implemented to respect strict UNESCO guidelines, while meeting residents' desire for renewable energy solutions.
Discussions highlighted that while regulations vary significantly across regions, from decentralised permitting in the UK and the Netherlands, to more centralised frameworks in Italy, case-by-case impact assessments are essential for addressing site-specific considerations.
Financing remains a significant challenge for the cultural and heritage sector, especially for smaller heritage buildings. Stakeholders discussed the role of energy communities, where electricity generated from PV systems in non-sensitive areas could support heritage sites or nearby social housing.
As the demand for sustainable energy continues to grow, this workshop marked a vital step in fostering dialogue and collaboration across sectors, ensuring that innovation and heritage can coexist harmoniously. The Increase project will continue to engage with heritage and cultural stakeholders, and will deliver bespoke case studies on solar PV integration linked to NEB, or heritage contexts.
Many thanks to the participants for their valuable contributions!
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