North Bristol Rugby Football Club: Powering the future on and off the pitch

An inclusive spirit

With more than 400 players - from juniors taking their first tackle to a thriving ladies squad competing at the highest non-professional level - North Bristol RFC is more than a rugby club, it’s a community hub. Based in Almondsbury, the club brings players, families and supporters together at their clubhouse. Available for community hire, it hosts not only club gatherings but also social events and celebrations throughout the year.

However, with a flood-lit pitch, busy clubhouse, bar facilities and year-round activity, energy bills were rising. Add in ongoing running costs with maintenance and staffing, plus player’s kit, and the club committee knew something had to change. They began to look for opportunities to lower their operating costs, exploring renewable energy options. That search led them to the Mayoral Combined Authority’s Carbon Survey scheme.

A winning strategy

The Carbon Survey provided a detailed roadmap, identifying clear opportunities to cut both costs and carbon emissions. Armed with expert insight and a solid plan, the club successfully applied for a Green Business Grant, securing £12,500 to deliver two major upgrades:

Photovoltaic panels: solar panels were installed on the clubhouse roof generating approximately 38,700 kWh of electricity per year, enough to meet the clubhouse’s energy needs.

LED lighting: Inside the clubhouse, high-consumption fluorescent lighting was replaced with energy-efficient LED alternatives, cutting lighting energy use by more than half while improving brightness and reliability.

The installations have reduced carbon emissions by almost 10 tonnes annually, and dramatically lowered electricity costs.

Putting back in for the community

Savings don’t sit idle, they’re reinvested back into the club and its members. The clubhouse has been refreshed with large screens and upgraded speakers in both the main hall and lounge, creating a better matchday experience. A new trophy cabinet showcases the club’s achievements, while a hand-painted mural brightens the changing room corridor.

Behind the scenes, improved insulation in the roof voids and modern central heating radiators have made the building warmer, more comfortable and more energy efficient.

By embracing renewable energy and smart efficiency measures, North Bristol RFC has done more than reduce its bills. It has strengthened its long-term sustainability, safeguarded its facilities, and ensured it can continue developing players and hosting community events for years to come.