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Ninety seven sports clubs – from across all 22 local authority areas in Wales – have received funding to pay for energy-saving improvements such as solar panels and insulation upgrades.

The Energy Saving Grant was first introduced by Sport Wales last year using Welsh Government funding, and due to high demand grants were offered again this year, with clubs able to apply for up to £25,000. 

Seventy clubs that have been awarded funding this year will use it to install solar panels at their premises, and for three clubs that already have solar panels, the grants will enable them to purchase storage batteries – meaning they can store excess energy to use when they need it most. 

Other grants will be used to fund heating and hot water upgrades, improved insulation, and sustainable water sourcing and recycling. 

Several of these clubs are based in Caerphilly County Borough, including Llanbradach FC, Bedwellty Park Bowls Club, and Joe Calzaghe’s Academy in Newbridge.

Brian Davies, CEO of Sport Wales said: “We know that rising energy bills can impact clubs in a really significant way, and the knock-on effects of this can mean increased costs for participants.  

“Over the last two years, £3.1m worth of Energy Saving Grants have now benefited a total of 175 sports clubs.  

“Rising energy bills are threatening the very existence of some clubs, so we’re thrilled to help protect their future so that they can continue offering vital services to people in their local communities. 

“Enabling clubs in Wales to improve their sustainability will also go a long way to lessening the impact of sport in Wales on climate change and the environment.”