BNT Installs New Solar Pergola At Waterville
The Bermuda National Trust [BNT] has enhanced sustainability efforts at its Waterville headquarters with the installation of a new solar pergola.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda National Trust [BNT] has taken a significant step toward sustainability with the installation of a new solar pergola at its headquarters, Waterville, on Pomander Road. The solar-powered structure now provides clean, renewable energy for the Trust’s operations while preserving the historic character of one of Bermuda’s most important heritage buildings.”
Geoff Parker, Architect; Charles Slabbert, BE Solar; Dorte Horsfield, BNT Head of Development; Robbie Godfrey, CEO BE Solar; Taylor Gorham, Fidelis Foundation; Heather Mello, Conduit Foundation; Elizabeth Wingate; Mark Orchard, BNT President; Teree Tucker, Conduit Foundation; Karen Border, BNT Executive Director; Myles Darrell, BNT Head of Natural Heritage; Michael Carvalho, Carvalho Construction; Andrew Butt, BNT Head of Property
“As Waterville is a Grade 1 listed building and highly visible from The Lane and across the waters of Hamilton Harbour, rooftop solar panels were not an option for us,” said Karen Border, Executive Director of the Bermuda National Trust.
“Instead, we chose to mount the panels on a pergola in the car park, at some distance from the building. This allowed us to balance the need to protect the integrity of this beautiful historic property while reducing BNT’s carbon footprint and adopting a sustainable energy solution.”
The spokesperson said, “The 14kW solar photovoltaic system was installed by BE Solar and is expected to generate enough electricity to meet the office’s annual energy requirements.”
“Solar energy makes particular sense in Bermuda in 2026,” Ms Border added. “With abundant sunshine year-round, rising energy costs, and increasing awareness of climate change, renewable energy offers both environmental and financial benefits. By generating our own electricity, we can reduce operating costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and demonstrate how sustainability and heritage conservation can work hand in hand.”
The spokesperson said, “In addition to producing renewable energy, the pergola provides shaded parking for staff and visitors.
“The project was made possible through the generous support of The Fidelis Foundation, The Conduit Foundation, and private donor Elizabeth Wingate. The pergola was designed by architect Geoff Parker and constructed by Carvalho Construction.
“At the official opening ceremony held last Friday, Taylor Gorham, Employee Advocate for The Fidelis Foundation, highlighted the alignment between the project and the Foundation’s mission.”
“The Bermuda National Trust’s Solar Pergola project was a perfect fit for The Fidelis Foundation,” said Ms Gorham. “The idea matched the Foundation’s values of efficiency, financial stability and measurable impact. I am so pleased that Fidelis could support the installation, which enables BNT to carry out its important work more sustainably, while preserving the historic integrity of Waterville house.”
Heather Mello of The Conduit Foundation also expressed her support for the project. “The Conduit Foundation is delighted to have been a sponsoring partner supporting The Bermuda National Trust’s Solar Pergola project, which adds solar power to the Waterville property and advances their environmental and sustainability efforts,” said Mello.
The spokesperson said, “The Bermuda National Trust extended its gratitude to all sponsors and partners who helped bring the project to fruition.”
“We are extremely grateful to our sponsors for their generosity and commitment to sustainability,” said Ms Border. “Their support has enabled us to invest in renewable energy while safeguarding one of Bermuda’s treasured historic landmarks for future generations.”
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