Totnes solar firm puts heritage railway on track to a greener future

“We’re chuffed!”

A Totnes renewable energy firm has helped one of Britain’s best-loved steam railways slash its energy bills and steam into its centenary with solar power – and now hopes to help heritage attractions closer to home in South Devon follow suit.

Bloom Renewables, based in Totnes, has installed solar panels at the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway (RHDR) in Kent, helping this historic miniature steam railway – founded in 1927 – cut running costs while preserving the old-fashioned charm that’s made it a much-loved attraction for generations.

We’re absolutely chuffed

For the South Devon firm, the project is a clear example of how solar can help heritage attractions, community organisations and local businesses cut costs without losing their character.

The new system is expected to generate around 110,000 kWh of electricity each year, helping the railway save up to £18,000 annually on its energy bills and reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 50 tonnes of CO2 per year.

The project was delivered as part of a community energy initiative. Under a 20-year agreement, the railway has not had to fund the installation upfront, but will instead buy the electricity generated on site at a lower cost.

Panels have been fitted to two engine sheds, the café and exhibition hall at New Romney Station, and the End of the Line restaurant at Dungeness Station.

Mark Bloomfield, of Bloom Renewables, said: “We’re absolutely chuffed to have worked on this project. There’s something poetic about a steam railway embracing modern solar technology. It shows going green doesn’t mean giving up the character, history or charm of a place. In fact, it can help protect it. 
 
“Heritage railways are expensive to run, and energy costs are a real issue for visitor attractions, community spaces and businesses across the country. Solar gives organisations like this more control over their costs, while also reducing their environmental impact.”

The Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway is famous for its steam locomotives, seaside route and devoted following of railway enthusiasts. Now, alongside the familiar sight of steam engines and vintage carriages, solar panels are helping power the railway’s buildings behind the scenes.

Stuart Ross, General Manager of the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, said: “The cost of running the railway has increased hugely over the last few years because of spiralling energy costs. The solar panels will help us to improve our environmental credentials while making savings.

Ross went on to add that the solar installation “…will help the railway to survive into its second century.”

Bloom Renewables is seeing increasing interest from similar organisations that once thought solar was only for homes or larger commercial roofs.

Mark Bloomfield added: “Schools, farms, charities, heritage sites, sports clubs and visitor attractions are all asking the same question: how do we reduce our bills and make our buildings more resilient for the future?

“We’d love to see more projects like this closer to home. Devon has so many brilliant heritage sites, community buildings and visitor attractions. Many of them have large roof spaces, high daytime energy use and a strong reason to keep costs under control. Solar can make a real difference.”

The Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway project follows a busy period for Bloom Renewables, which works with homes, farms, businesses and community organisations across the South West and beyond.