Plymouth Energy Community's solar share scheme backed by council

Plymouth residents are being encouraged to buy shares in community energy projects

A share scheme launched to raise money for a community energy project has already attracted the backing of its local council.

Plymouth Energy Community has been handed a £500,000 loan by the Council to help it begin a solar share scheme.

The programme involves installing solar panels on community buildings, including more than 10 primary schools, which convert the energy from the sun into renewable electricity.

Twenty sites across the city are set to have the panels installed which will help cut their energy bills and carbon emissions.

Dave Garland, director of the members' co-operative, said: "This is the first time that a council has been so proactively engaged in enabling local ownership of renewable energy. We hope other authorities follow their lead."

Plymouth councillor Mark Lowry said: "This is a great opportunity for people to invest in renewable energy."

Shares cost £1 with a minimum £50. A return of up to 6 per cent is being forecast. You'll find full details at www.plymouthenergycommunity.com/invest.