Gym-goers ‘walking on sunshine’ as solar carport switched on at The Reef

Date published: 28th July 2023

The solar carport at The Reef is operational and generating electricity for the leisure centre and assisting the Council’s transition to Net Zero.

Built by RenEnergy, the carport is made up of 600 solar panels and is expected to produce around 276,000kWh a year, with energy savings expected to make the cost of the carport back in just 6 years.

The carport covers two-thirds of the car park and 75 percent of the energy created at the solar carport will power the leisure centre, with 25 percent returning to the National Grid. It is estimated that 57,000kgs of CO2 emissions will be avoided annually by using electricity generated by the carport.



Cllr. Adam Varley, portfolio holder for Net Zero and Climate Change said:

“This is a fantastic innovation for The Reef, and for North Norfolk. Generating our own renewable power is a huge step in moving to a more sustainable future and one we would like to see replicated elsewhere in the district.

As a Council, we will explore more possibilities as we transition towards Net Zero.”

Peggy Lee, Everyone Active’s Group Sustainability Manager, said:

“We are delighted to support our partners at North Norfolk District Council and the new operation of the solar car port at The Reef, which will generate a renewable energy supply for the leisure centre.

“It is great news and supports our joint ambition with the Council to further reduce the centre’s carbon footprint.

“Everyone Active is proud to work alongside our local authority partners, to support them in achieving their net zero ambitions, as well as our net zero strategy.”

The Council has committed to achieving Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2030 and is exploring options for reducing energy usage and maximising efficiencies across its estate.

Solar carports are an innovative way to retain functional space while generating energy to power the Council’s assets. The Reef was designed to maximise energy efficiency including such measures as solar thermal collectors, which naturally heat the water.

Find out more at www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/thereef

Sign up for membership or activities at The Reef through Everyone Active