Residents of Birgham in the Scottish Borders are celebrating a new chapter for their much-loved village hall after our Transmission Net Zero Fund awards £22,605 towards the installation of renewable energy and modern heating systems that will help safeguard the building for generations to come.
Birgham Village Hall has long been at the heart of the community. From village meetings and social gatherings to pop-up art shows, film nights and fitness classes, the hall provides a welcoming space where neighbours can come together, stay active and keep community life thriving. The hall has played a central role in village life for decades.
Now, thanks to funding from our Transmission Net Zero Fund, with additional match funding support from the Scottish Government’s Community and Renewable Energy Scheme (CARES), the hall has taken an important step toward a more sustainable future. Grants totalling over £37,000 have enabled the installation of solar panels, a new battery storage system and an air-to-air heating system and dehumidifier
The improvements will reduce the building’s carbon footprint and energy costs, helping the historic hall to continue serving the community in a more environmentally-friendly and financially sustainable way.
Graham Campbell, Director at SP Energy Networks, said: “Community spaces like Birgham Village Hall are incredibly important. They bring people together, support wellbeing and help rural communities thrive.
“Through our Transmission Net Zero Fund we’re proud to support projects that not only reduce carbon emissions, but also help secure the future of places that matter to local people. Seeing renewable energy technology installed here means this much-loved hall can continue serving the community while playing its part in the transition to a greener future.”
Bill Burgess, Trustee and Project Manager, Birgham Village Hall said: “Our village hall is more than just a building. It’s a community hub where friendships are made and where people come to feel part of their community.
“The rising cost of electricity for heating is a real concern for us, so receiving this funding has been transformational. By installing solar panels, battery storage and modern air-to-air source heating, we’re not only reducing our running costs, but also ensuring this historic space can continue to support the mental and physical wellbeing of residents for many years to come.”
One regular attendee, 91-year-old Barbara says the hall plays an important role in her life.
“It keeps me moving and it keeps me smiling,” she said. “I come to the Wishful Shrinkers class every week and it’s wonderful. We have a good stretch, a good chat and plenty of laughs. The hall means a lot to all of us. It’s where we see our friends and feel part of something. Knowing it’s being looked after for the future is just lovely.”