Later today, Keech Hospice in Luton will be hosting a special event to thank local company Renewable EDtricity Systems Ltd for installing a 220kW solar panel system on the hospice roof – a move which will save the charity around £50k a year in energy costs.
Eddie Doherty and Mark Morrison from Renewable EDtricity Systems Ltd offered to fulfil the ambitious project free of charge when Eddie learned it costs Keech tens of thousands of pounds annually just to keep its buildings warm and lit, and essential equipment running.
Help from all over the country
Installation work began in May 2025, with Eddie and Mark taking on the electrical work themselves and rallying support from their wide network of tradespeople and industry connections. Their enthusiasm quickly gathered momentum, attracting offers of help from across the country.
Eddie said: “Keech has a huge impact in Luton and Bedfordshire. We got on to the subject of their rising energy costs and asked what we could do…Some of the largest companies in the world helped. Astronergy donated all 504 solar panels and Clenergy donated the mounting systems…McCarthy loaned us a forklift and Capital Sky, who are building the Luton Town stadium, also helped.”
A £200k charity saving
The project, which has recently been completed, would have cost Keech around £200,000 had they paid for it. Now Keech is inviting Eddie, Mark and their team, plus around 50 other individuals who gave their time and materials free of charge to the project, to the hospice on 30 January for a special thank you event. The afternoon will culminate in a celebratory curry meal at Valerie’s, Keech’s on site restaurant.
First of its kind
The Renewable EDtricity Systems Ltd/Keech Hospice solar initiative is believed to be the first of its kind for any hospice in the UK.
Nikki Samsa, Associate Director of Supporter Engagement at Keech, hopes it will encourage more partnerships between charities and local businesses:
“This wonderful initiative is a shining example of the good that can happen when a community pulls together. At the core of the project is the resolute belief held by all those involved that everyone deserves to live and die well, with comfort and dignity. Renewable EDtricity Systems Ltd is helping us ensure that, for our patients, that is a reality.”
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