A landmark heritage building could become greener under new plans to install more than 140 solar panels on its roof.
Wells Maltings Trust has applied to install the photovoltaic panels at Wells Maltings and the adjacent Sackhouse building on Staithe Street in the town.
It says the panels would help it to cut carbon emissions and reduce long-term energy costs.
"The rising cost of energy presents a significant challenge to the long-term sustainability of community buildings and charitable organisations," it adds in a planning statement.
"The proposals would preserve the essential character and significance of the listed buildings, preserve the architectural form of the buildings, deliver substantial renewable energy generation and improve financial sustainability."
The trust said the project would allow more of its income to be directed towards arts, heritage and community activities.
The two buildings, with historic links to Wells’ commercial and maritime past now serve as a theatre and performance venue, education centre, visitor information point and community activities hub.
They attract more than 40,000 visitors a year and support nearly 30 community groups and businesses.
Panels would be mounted flush to the existing pitched roofs, with electrical equipment including batteries stored inside.
The trust says they would have limited effect on the buildings' historic fabric and would not alter their rooflines.
It adds: "The installation represents a practical and proportionate response to the climate emergency whilst ensuring that the heritage significance of the buildings remains protected.
"The proposals secure environmental, social and economic benefits simultaneously and therefore represent sustainable development in its broadest sense."
The Maltings building is leased to the Wells Maltings Trust under a 999-year agreement from North Norfolk District Council.
The 19th‑century former maltings complex reopened to the public in 2018 after a major refurbishment.
Wells was a major malting town from the 18th century, at one point boasting around a dozen maltings supplying a large share of England’s malt exports by sea, especially to Holland.
