Most of Gotland's 92 medieval churches remain unheated during the winter, leading to significant expenses ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 kronor every time they need to be warmed up for activities. Carin Jakobsson, chair of the church committee responsible for the care and maintenance of these churches, highlights the financial strain this places on their upkeep, particularly as they move to find alternative heating solutions.

The current heating systems in place are often outdated, and a review is underway to identify a more efficient and cost-effective solution that could serve multiple churches at once. Jakobsson notes the importance of heating these churches appropriately for significant events like weddings and baptisms, indicating that local sentiment and tradition revolve around the use of these historical buildings during such occasions. Efforts are being made to explore better heating options, including the possibility of transitioning to wood chip heating, especially as the community faces a deadline of removing existing oil-fired boilers by 2030.

As they navigate these challenges, the community is considering various proposals and solutions to manage the churches’ heating needs sustainably. This initiative not only pertains to economic considerations but also to preserving cultural heritage in the face of evolving energy requirements. The outcome of this review could set precedence for other historical sites facing similar dilemmas in Sweden and beyond, reflecting a broader movement toward environmentally friendly energy solutions in heritage conservation.