Historic pavilion begins generating solar power

7 July 2026

The De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill-on-Sea, one of England’s most significant Grade I listed modernist buildings, has installed 144 lightweight solar panels expected to generate about 20% of the venue’s annual electricity needs as part of a wider redevelopment programme.

The installation, carried out by commercial solar company Absolar, has a total capacity of 77.7kWp and is forecast to produce around 71,570kWh of electricity each year. According to the project partners, this would reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 18 tonnes annually.

The panels have been fitted to the auditorium roof and were selected because of the building’s structural requirements. At 7.2kg per square metre, the developers say they are the first installation of this particular lightweight solar panel in the UK. The design allows the pavilion’s original steel roof structure, engineered by Felix Samuely, to support the system while retaining capacity for future auditorium equipment.

The solar array has been installed alongside GoodWe inverters, which have been chosen to integrate with the building’s existing electrical system and to allow for the possible addition of battery storage in the future.

The project forms part of An Icon For Everyone, a long-term transformation programme being delivered in partnership with Rother District Council. The scheme includes refurbishment of the auditorium and galleries, new learning and community spaces, improved accessibility measures and environmental upgrades.

Stewart Drew, chief executive and director of the De La Warr Pavilion, says:

“It’s a milestone moment, and one that reflects our ongoing dedication to environmental sustainability, strengthening the long-term resilience of the building and reducing its operational impact on the environment.”

Kathryn Field, Rother District Council’s portfolio holder for environment:

“We are delighted that the solar panels are being installed at the De La Warr Pavilion. This funding has enabled a major investment in environmental sustainability which will greatly reduce the Pavilion’s carbon footprint.”

Dr Phil Wu, CEO of Absolar comments:

“It’s been a real honour to be part of this project as the De La Warr Pavilion is such a community asset, steeped in history and loved by the people of Bexhill. We were determined to find a solution that protects and preserves it for the next 90 years and beyond.”

The solar installation was funded through Rother District Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy Climate Emergency Bonus Fund. The pavilion is marking its 90th anniversary this year.