Pollution-free electricity considered for Council offices

Kennet District Council is considering a proposal to install solar panels and a small wind turbine at the Browfort offices in order to generate renewable electricity for use on site.

The total cost of the investment in fitting photovoltaic solar panels is in the region of £100,000 and this will lead to the generation of about 18,000 kilowatts of electricity a year.  It is hoped to fund up to 70% of the cost of the project from grants from outside bodies. With the cost of electricity increasing significantly every year it is possible that the payback of the investment will be less than 10 years should the maximum grants be obtained.

The fitting of a small domestic sized wind turbine to the roof of the Council offices is likely to cost about £4000 and will take advantage of the favourable location of Browfort to generate power.  Again, grants of up to 70% of the cost are potentially available and the Council will be looking to secure these.

Councillor Peter Evans, Member Champion for the Environment said:

"Both proposals reflect the commitment of Kennet District Council to sustainable development and the need for small scale local action to combat the threat of global warming.  The proposals would also allow the Council contribute to targets set out in the Wiltshire Renewable Energy Action Plan, which the Council signed up to in 2005".

Before any action is taken the Council would like to hear your views on the matter. If you would like to have a say about whether Kennet District Council should install alternative sustainable energy sources please visit the Council website at www.kennet.gov.uk or call on 01380 724911 to leave your comments.