A YORK charity which has been caring for animals in the city for 150 years is taking a 21st century approach to cutting its energy bills so more money can be spent on its welfare work.

Plans have been drawn up to install solar PV panels across three roofs of the RSPCA York and District Branch’s animal home on Landing Lane as a way of tackling rising energy costs, with a decision on whether the scheme can go ahead expected to be made early in the New Year.

Agents acting for the charity said the local branch of the RSPCA is self-funding and needs at least £1,400 every day to run.

It has been at its current base in Clifton, where dogs, cats, rabbits and other animals – many of which have been abandoned or mistreated by their owners – are cared for and found new homes, since 1981, although the charity has had a presence in York since 1864.

“As a local guardian of animal welfare and care, the work of RSPCA staff and volunteers contributes to a significant social good,” said a statement sent to City of York Council planners by Tockwith-based Duncan Renewables, the company which has produced the proposals on the charity’s behalf.

“These efforts are not without cost and, because of this, RSPCA York is committed to ensuring it uses donations in the most effective way possible.

“The solar PV will enhance the sustainability of the site and ensure as much funding as possible is directed to the care of animals, not energy companies.”

The firm said the project would also be environmentally cleaner through reducing carbon emissions and could cut the RSPCA branch’s operating costs by £2,000 a year, with this saving being greater if energy prices rise. It would see 92 panels installed, with Duncan Renewables saying the design of the array would be “unobtrusive and sensitive to the wider area”.

The RSPCA York and District branch, which relies on volunteers, also offers veterinary and financial support to help to ensure animals in its care are found new owners and has a shop in Gillygate.

The Landing Lane animal home is open between 11am and 3.30pm from Tuesday to Sunday.

More information, including about volunteering opportunities, is at rspca-yorkhome.org.uk, by phoning (01904) 654949 or by emailing reception@rspca-yorkhome.org.uk