Storyhouse has installed 209 additional solar panels on its roof, creating "significant cost savings" for the Chester hub.

It is expected that the latest installation will help triple the theatre's solar energy capacity - leading to lower carbon emissions, greater self-sustained power generation and significant cost savings.

The project used funding from the Theatres Trust's Theatre Improvement Scheme.

Storyhouse was allocated £20,000 from the Wolfson Foundation - alongside over £25,000 from Cheshire West and Chester Council's Climate Emergency Fund.

This sum covered one third of the overall cost, with Storyhouse making its own significant invest-to-save commitment - enabling the installation of 209 additional solar panels.

This will result in an annual CO2 saving of over 48,000kg.

The new panels will help cut Storyhouse's energy bills (Image via: Storyhouse)

The installation is part of an ongoing effort by Storyhouse to evolve its environmental practices, whilst reducing waste wherever possible.

Annabel Turpin, CEO at Storyhouse, said: "This is one of those projects that isn't always visible to the public but makes a huge difference behind the scenes.

"These new panels mean we can cut our carbon footprint and our energy bills at the same time - which is good news for the planet and for keeping Storyhouse open, warm and welcoming for everyone.

"A huge thank you to everyone who's worked so hard to get them installed, including our staff, our partner DomElec and Cheshire West & Chester Council colleagues."

Matt Quinton from DomElec Electrical & Solar, said: "Bringing solar to the Storyhouse, such an iconic building in Chester, was a dream come true for Domelec.

"The journey from the proposal to installation was the realisation of a shared vision.

"It's felt a very collaborative effort and what is a technically challenging project; a large solar installation in the centre of a busy city on top of an extremely active building brought its challenges, but I'm glad to say it's all gone brilliantly.

"It's not just about cutting energy costs, it's about sustainability taking centre stage and now the sun powers the spotlight and we've been honoured to be involved."

Cllr Louise Gittins said: "Supporting Storyhouse through our Climate Emergency Fund, backed by the Shared Prosperity Fund, is a powerful example of how we can invest in our cultural institutions while tackling climate change.

"Installing solar panels at this much-loved cultural space not only reduces carbon emissions but also helps secure a more sustainable future for our community organisations."