Telford & Wrekin Council’s solar farm is projected to make an estimated income of £180,000 in the first financial year, which will then contribute to filling the budget gap.
During the first 12 months the solar farm has generated 3.96 GWH of green electricity – this is enough energy to power nearly 1,000 average homes for a year.
The solar farm has generated income and power and has helped avoid the production of 2,000 tons of CO2 emissions compared to more traditional electricity production.
The Council has made a commitment to move towards a more sustainable financial position to help offset government cuts. The solar farm project is a part of its strategy to find new ways of generating income that will help to protect frontline services.
The solar farm also forms part of the Council’s wider energy strategy to aid a reduction in its carbon footprint which includes improving energy efficiency and energy generation in Council buildings.
Telford & Wrekin Council held a successful open day inviting other councils and members of the public, to do a walk around tour of the farm and ask questions and gain more understanding of how the solar farm works.
After a successful pilot year of bee keeping on the solar farm, it has been agreed that this will continue for another year.
The Council will continue to work with interested parties and schools to and look at more community programs in the future.
Councillor Shaun Davies, cabinet lead for commercial projects, said: “We’re really pleased with the success of the solar farm just 12 months after it was switched on.
“At a time when we need to make £30m in budget cuts due to cuts to the Government grant, the money raised by the solar farm is very welcome.
“This project has demonstrated our commitment to show community leadership and to be a greener council.”
