St Regulus Cromarty is a beautiful church in the heart of the town that is home to a congregation of dedicated Episcopalians. The building is grade C listed and sits within the local conservation area.
It previously had old heaters that were ineffective and left the church cold and hard to heat. The congregation wanted a warm space where they could worship in the round. They were also conscious of the need to care for creation through working towards net zero.
The church has undergone the following refurbishments, making it a better place for worship:
- The removal of asbestos and making safe any remaining asbestos
- Hot water provision to the vestry
- LED lighting – this will reduce energy bills, provide a sharper light for reading service sheets and will require less frequent replacement of bulbs
- Modern far infra-red heaters – these produce more warmth than the previous older heaters making the church a noticeably more comfortable space
- Heated seats – much like heated car seats, the church has purchased a few heated pads that members of the congregation can put on their chair should they want some extra warmth.
With the church on a renewable tariff for electricity, this means it is now as close to Net Zero as it can get and at the same time has made the church a better place for everyone who uses it.
Rev Alex Lane CN, Black Isle Rector explains the importance of improving the building:
At St Regulus Church, our commitment to Net Zero reflects a theological conviction that creation is not merely a resource to be used, but a gift entrusted to our care by God.
Rooted in the biblical call to stewardship (Genesis 2:15), we understand our responsibility to “tend and keep” the earth as an act of worship and obedience.
Working toward Net Zero is therefore not only an environmental necessity but a spiritual discipline, seeking justice for the vulnerable, safeguarding the integrity of creation, and bearing witness to the hope of renewal in Christ.
In building for the future, we honour both Creator and creation, ensuring that generations to come may flourish within God’s world.
Daniel Prince, Clean Energy Advisor
