26.08.11
Solar power project for North Tyneside
North Tyneside council and energy provider E.on have announced a joint project to fit solar panels to council house roofs and public buildings. This should lead to savings for the tenants as well as reducing the borough’s carbon footprint.
Solar panels will be installed onto 3,000 homes and 100 public buildings, including leisure and community centres. This could save between £70 and £120 per year on energy bills by using the free daytime electricity generated by the panels. Carbon emissions will also be reduced by up to 75,000 tonnes.
The council will receive revenue over the next 25 years for renting out the roof space. This money will go towards a Green Fund to improve energy efficiency for those homes which will not benefit from the scheme.
North Tyneside’s elected mayor, Linda Arkley, said: “The solar panels project is great news. It will lead to a substantial reduction in North Tyneside’s carbon footprint. But perhaps most importantly, it means that in tough financial times we’re providing extra support for our tenants by enabling them to reduce their fuel bills.”
Thomas Buss, head of microgeneration at E.on, said: “We’ve all got a role to play in bringing down our carbon footprint and becoming more energy fit. I’m delighted that we’re able to work with North Tyneside Council and together we can start to make a difference and build energy efficient into our everyday lives.
“Schemes like this will not only give people a more renewable source of power, they’ll also provide a source of free energy – it’s like your housing is working for you.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]