In 2019, Wealden District Council declared a climate emergency, pledging to achieve net-zero emissions in all council-owned buildings by 2050. As a first step in this commitment, the council chose to begin at a meaningful and sensitive site: Wealden Crematorium—a peaceful, 25-acre rural facility in Heathfield that serves as a place for the community to say goodbye to loved ones with dignity.
The aim was to reduce the crematorium’s carbon footprint and grid reliance while ensuring the energy system remained invisible to guests and respectful of the space’s solemn purpose. Although the crematorium’s design allowed for a 252 m² solar PV array on the roof, solar generation alone couldn’t meet demand due to weather variability and fluctuating energy loads.
To achieve true sustainability, battery energy storage was needed to:
OHM Energy installed a 50 kW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System paired with Eaton’s xStorage Compact 40 kW / 50 kWh battery storage system, tailored specifically for Wealden’s needs.
“Having declared a Climate Emergency, our focus has been on reducing emissions and costs, and setting an example to others. This solar PV and battery project delivers on all fronts.”Lisa Fiddimore, Wealden District Council
The solar and battery storage system now enables Wealden Crematorium to:
Financial Highlights
The crematorium’s system is scalable and ready for future enhancements, such as EV charging, smart energy management, or additional storage capacity—a forward-looking approach as Wealden Council continues toward its net-zero goals.
“Eaton’s technology offered the perfect balance of reliability, safety, and discretion. The trust we’ve built through this project sets the foundation for future collaboration with Wealden.”Jason Lindfield, CEO, OHM Energy
With this successful installation at Wealden Crematorium, OHM Energy, Eaton, and Wealden Council are now exploring new projects across the district to decarbonise more council-owned sites. The crematorium stands as a model of how solar and storage can work hand-in-hand to create clean, efficient, and respectful spaces that benefit both the environment and the community.
Ready to take control of your energy future? Contact OHM Energy to schedule your free solar consultation and get a no-obligation quote from the South East’s trusted solar specialists.
Want to learn more before making the switch? Download our Solar 101 Guide to explore the benefits, technology, and key tips for getting the most from your solar PV system.
There’s a lot to think about, so we’ve tried to simplify things and answer some of your initial questions.
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