Energy and Sustainability in Fishbourne

Solar, insulation, and the village's approach to energy

Energy efficiency and sustainability are growing concerns for Fishbourne residents, as they are across the country. The village's housing stock ranges from well-insulated modern builds to older properties that require significant investment to bring up to current energy standards.

Solar panels are visible on rooftops across the village, with the south-facing orientation and relatively sunny climate of the coastal plain making Fishbourne a good location for solar generation. The flat terrain means that shading from neighbouring buildings is less of an issue than in hilly areas.

Older properties in Old Fishbourne and along the village lanes may have solid walls that cannot accommodate cavity insulation, making energy efficiency improvements more expensive and complex. The conservation area designation adds a further constraint, as external wall insulation or visible solar panels may require planning permission.

Electric vehicle charging is available at some public locations in Chichester, and home charging is straightforward for properties with off-street parking. The growing adoption of electric vehicles among commuters is reducing emissions, though the charging infrastructure in the village itself is limited.

The parish council and village association have engaged with sustainability issues, and there is interest among residents in community energy schemes and local initiatives. The Chichester district council has declared a climate emergency and published a strategy that includes targets for carbon reduction across the district.