Overcoming Planning Challenges for a Grade II Listed Building
When Sherborne Town Council declared a climate emergency, the team at MPRC was tasked with identifying practical ways to decarbonise local infrastructure—starting with a building that presented more than a few challenges.
The site in question was a Grade II listed building located in a conservation area, making the direct installation of renewable technologies such as rooftop solar panels or external heat pumps extremely complex.
Emily, Renewable Energy Project Coordinator at MPRC, led the feasibility study:
“The building and location weren’t straightforward. We had to find a solution that respected the historic character while still delivering renewable energy to power a modern heat pump system.”
Read the Case Study on this project here
Installing a Freestanding Solar Canopy in the Car Park
Following the feasibility assessment, the most viable and unobtrusive option was to install a freestanding solar carport canopy in the adjacent car park. This clever design allowed for a large solar array to be installed without interfering with the heritage site or breaching conservation guidelines.
The solar canopy was engineered to:
- Avoid impact on the listed structure.
- Maximise solar generation within the space available.
- Maintain car park usability with minimal encroachment.
- Power a large heat pump system to support the transition away from gas.
Why MPRC Chose ProStar Energy Again
With the concept in place, MPRC needed a trusted solar installer who could manage the complexity of the job and deliver a reliable result.
“We’ve worked with ProStar before and they’re always fantastic—super friendly, knowledgeable, and deliver every project on time. There were a few hiccups, but ProStar used their initiative and handled everything efficiently"
System Specs and Fast Turnaround
ProStar installed 55 high-efficiency 565W solar panels on the custom canopy, which now powers the on-site heat pump system—significantly reducing the site’s reliance on fossil fuels.
In addition to the PV system, ProStar also:
- Integrated an EV charging point directly into the canopy structure.
- Completed the installation in just a matter of days.
- Delivered a clean, modern aesthetic that blends well with the surrounding area.
Project Outcome and Client Feedback
Despite the project’s complexity, the results speak for themselves:
“The installation looks amazing. We’re proud not just of the technical performance, but of how seamlessly it fits into the environment.”
Emily summed up her experience working with ProStar:
“We’ll definitely be working with ProStar again. They’re absolutely brilliant at what they do—I couldn’t recommend them enough.”
Helping Heritage Sites Go Green with Smart Solar Design
At ProStar Energy, we specialise in solving complex renewable energy challenges. From bespoke solar canopies for heritage properties to full low-carbon heating solutions, we bring deep technical expertise and a collaborative approach to every project.
Need a Solar Solution for a Listed or Challenging Site?
Let us help you find the most practical, aesthetically pleasing, and regulation-compliant renewable energy system for your site—whether listed, urban, or unconventional.
Speak to our team today about bespoke solar canopies, heat pump integration, and EV-ready infrastructure.
