A project that installed solar panels on the roof of a cherished Dunblane community asset has been shortlisted for a top prize.
Solar panels save thousands annually
The Dunblane Centre, a community facility since 2004, faced financial uncertainty in recent years due to rising bills and declining volunteer numbers. After a close call in 2023, a revitalised group of trustees revived its fortunes. Local couple Rob and Julie Forrest pledged 96 solar panels for the roof through their renewable energy firm Green Power. The generous donation is estimated to save the centre between £5,000 and £9,000 a year in running costs.
Shortlisted for Alan Clark Award
The project has been shortlisted for the Alan Clark Award for Local and Community Energy at the Solar & Storage Live Awards 2026. Julie Forrest, director of GreenPower, said: “Helping this important community facility to reduce energy bills by installing a solar array seemed like the best way we could help, and we are delighted to see it all come to fruition. The panels will also help to reduce the environmental impact of the Centre in a sustainable way, and we are delighted that the initiative has been shortlisted for the biggest awards in the UK solar calendar.”
The awards recognise the best innovations in the solar and energy storage sector across the UK. The Dunblane project is one of four up for the community prize. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in Birmingham in September.
Trustees grateful for recognition
Jenny Stirton, chair of trustees at the Dunblane Centre, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to see the project recognised in this way. The extraordinary generosity has made a lasting difference to the Dunblane Centre. The significant savings we’re making on our energy bills are being reinvested directly back into the community, helping us maintain our building, supporting our affordable activities and reducing our carbon footprint. As a charity that receives no council funding, this project has strengthened our long-term sustainability, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who made it possible.”
