Plans have been submitted to install 84 solar panels on the roof of Cowes’ historic Northwood House in a bid to cut electricity bills and reduce carbon emissions at the Grade II listed building.
The Northwood House Trust Ltd is seeking planning permission for the installation across the west, east and south wings of the landmark property off Ward Avenue.
The proposed solar array would cover approximately 168m² of roof space and have a combined generating capacity of 36.96kWp, helping to meet the electricity demands of the building, which is used for offices, weddings, private parties and community events.
According to documents submitted to the Isle of Wight Council, 53 of the panels would be installed on the West Wing, which formerly housed service quarters and stables. A further 15 panels would be positioned on the East Wing, with 16 on the South Wing.
The historically significant North Wing, which features a domed rotunda and elaborate decorative interiors, would be left untouched.
All 84 panels would feature an all-black finish to minimise their visual impact, with the majority positioned on flat roofs behind existing parapets to keep them largely hidden from view.
The installation has been designed so that the panels and their fixings can be removed without permanently altering the building’s historic roof structure.
As part of the project, ageing asphalt and felt roof coverings would also be replaced with a modern single-ply membrane, improving weather protection in areas previously affected by water ingress.
A heritage statement prepared by LMA Heritage Consultancy Ltd acknowledges that the installation could cause a limited degree of harm to the significance of the listed building. However, the statement argues that the environmental and financial benefits would outweigh that harm, particularly given Northwood House’s continuing role as a charitable and community venue.
The Trust hopes that reducing running costs will help support the long-term sustainability of the building, which was gifted to the Town of Cowes in 1928.
Northwood House has a lengthy history, having previously served as a boys’ school, nunnery, Red Cross hospital and municipal offices.
Its Grade II* listing reflects its significant architectural features, including elaborate interior decorations dating from the 19th century.
The planning application 26/01450/FUL is currently awaiting determination.
