Powering the Past: A Blog Series on Renewables in Listed Buildings and Heritage Assets

Series Overview

In the Autumn of 2024, we completed a project whereby renewable technologies were successfully integrated into a Grade II Listed building in the heart of Lymington. Our Client is enthusiastically monitoring their energy use so they can record how effective their new installation is performing; but also so they can compare energy usage costs before and after they invested into renewable technologies.

This blog series considers how renewable technologies can be sensitively integrated into listed buildings and heritage assets. It makes the case that sustainability and conservation are not opposing forces, but complementary goals when guided by significance-led design and sound planning judgement.

Listed buildings and heritage assets are often seen as being in tension with modern sustainability goals. Planning policy and conservation practice have traditionally prioritised preservation of historic fabric and visual character, sometimes at the expense of environmental performance. However, in the context of the climate emergency, rising energy costs, and the urgent need to decarbonise the built environment, this perceived conflict must be re‑examined. Sensitive integration of renewable technologies into historic buildings can extend their viable use, reduce operational carbon, and secure their long-term future—without compromising their significance. This blog sets out the benefits of such integration and makes a strong case for planning authorities to actively support it where heritage values are preserved.

Part 1: Heritage Buildings as Living Assets

Moving Beyond the Idea of Preservation as Stasis

Listed buildings are often treated as if their value depends on remaining unchanged. In reality, historic buildings have always evolved. From the introduction of gas lighting and electricity to plumbing, insulation, and modern services, change is embedded in their history. Understanding heritage assets as living, functional buildings is essential. Continued use is the most effective form of conservation, and adaptation is often what enables that use to continue.

Use, Viability, and Long-Term Survival

Vacancy and underuse are among the greatest threats to heritage buildings. Buildings that are uncomfortable, expensive to operate, or unable to meet contemporary expectations are more likely to fall into disrepair. Renewable technologies can support viable, long-term uses by improving comfort and reducing running costs, ensuring that heritage assets remain occupied, maintained, and valued.