Solar panels will be introduced to two local sheltered housing blocks as we continue our drive to save energy and reduce carbon emissions across the borough.
The buildings in Eltham Road, Lee and at Hervey Road, Blackheath will be used in a trial run of roof-top photo-voltaic panels.
The panels convert energy from the sun into electricity and the energy generated will be used for lighting, lifts and entry systems.
The operation of the panels will involve no disturbance or inconvenience to residents, but they will provide the Council with vital information about how much energy can be saved this way.
Improving energy efficiency
The scheme is part of a range of energy-saving initiatives across the borough that aim to make homes more energy efficient.
Other improvements include better central heating, new boilers and more double-glazing. These form part of our £250 million Decent Homes programme.
Funding
The installation will be undertaken by Chiltern Future Energy. The Council is paying for half of the cost of the pilot, the other half of the funding comes from the Department of Trade and Industry.
Green agenda
Councillor Peter Kotz, cabinet member for housing and Neighbourhood Renewal, said:
"This scheme is all about the Decent Homes agenda of improving our housing stock and making it as energy efficient as possible. Photo-voltaic panels are a wonderful example of our green agenda - they are efficient, visually unobtrusive and easy to run. I’ll be following this pilot programme with great interest."
Find out how you can save energy and reduce your fuel bills in our energy efficiency section.
7 December 2006