Aspire Ryde have this week gone solar after installing a new solar panel system following a national fundraising drive inspired by the late musician Prince.
In the days following Prince’s death, details emerged of his wide ranging, secret philanthropy, including thousands of dollars worth of solar panels he donated to communities in Oakland, California. Inspired by this, climate charity 10:10 launched a crowdfunder to provide solar panels for 6 organisations working on other issues Prince supported.
After 6 weeks of fundraising last year, including a purple fun day held at Aspire Ryde, the centre is now set to enjoy the benefits of the new solar panel system.
With these new solar panels Aspire Ryde, which offers local people music, arts and community facilities, will be able to lower their energy bills and engage the community in issues around climate change. Having acquired the building in 2014, the project will help them run more sustainably, and reinvest the money into their work.
Heath Monaghan project leader of Aspire Ryde said:
“Aspire Ryde are thrilled to have these six new solar panels. Already this weekend they’ve been working hard producing us clean energy to power our work. These panels will help the Aspire Ryde become greener and ensure we create positive environmental impacts for the community”.
Neil Jones, project manager at 10:10 Climate Action said:
“Solar power is for everyone – and now Aspire Ryde are a shining example of that. Not only will these panels help them fight climate change, they’ll also give them more energy independence. This means less money on bills and more money to do the amazing work they do with the local community through their amazing building”.
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10:10 Climate Action are now calling on the government to ensure that solar panels are included on all new buildings. Add your name to the petition here.
