The Cheese and Grain has installed a new and expanded solar energy system on its roof, as part of a plan to reduce costs and dramatically cut the carbon footprint of the venue.
Alongside the additional solar panels, new battery storage has been installed. This means the venue can store energy generated during the day and continue operating even during a power cut.
Cheese and Grain Director, Steve Macarthur, said the investment was driven in part by the huge volatility in energy prices experienced by venues in recent years.
‘Back in 2022–23 our electricity bill suddenly doubled to more than £50,000. That kind of increase closed dozens of venues across the UK. We managed to weather the storm, but it made us realise we needed to protect ourselves from that kind of risk in the future.’
On a good summer’s day, the new system will generate enough electricity to power the entire venue, while also storing surplus energy in batteries and exporting additional power back to the grid.
Frome town councillor Sara Butler welcomed the project, highlighting both its environmental and community benefits.
‘This is a brilliant example of practical climate action,’ she said. ‘The Cheese and Grain is doing its bit to tackle climate change while also building its own resilience. Income from power exported to the grid will come back to Frome Town Council, money that it can spend on services for the town. At the same time the venue continues to secure employment for around 60 local people.’
The Cheese and Grain raised £78,000 to fund the full cost of the system and would like to thank the Somerset Rural Prosperity Fund, Glastonbury Festival and Molson Coors for their contributions.
Frome Town Council supported the project through technical advice and assistance with permissions and planning.
Steve Macarthur added, ‘It’s a significant investment, but we expect the system to save around £20,000 a year on electricity bills at current prices — and even more if energy prices rise again. For a community venue like ours, that kind of saving really matters.’
The system was installed by Mole Energy, the renewable energy division of Mole Valley Farmers, which provides energy management solutions for homes, farms and businesses.
The Cheese and Grain is a not-for-profit social enterprise registered as a charity and run by local people.
To find out more about upcoming performances and events, visit www.cheeseandgrain.com.
