Solar panels will go up on all Islington estate roofs

Published: 27th May, 2011
by PETER GRUNER

ISLINGTON is planning to be the first authority in London to harness the power of the sun to bring jobs and cut fuel bills.

A scheme to install solar power panels on every council estate has been given the go-ahead. It has the potential to save tenants and leaseholders many hundreds of pounds a year in fuel bills.

Islington is seeking one or more partners to install photovoltaic (PV) panels on roofs of council properties for a 25-year period, at no cost to the council or the taxpayers. 

In return, the partner organisation would receive a share of money made from generating power. It is also aimed to create training and jobs to help boost the local economy. 

Labour councillor Paul Smith, executive member for environment, said: “The partnership will work by generating electricity to cut service charges for residents, raising money to tackle fuel poverty and making homes cheaper to heat.

“It should be a win-win plan. Also, it will provide jobs and, importantly, at a time when we have hugely reduced budgets because of government cuts, it will not cost taxpayers.”

The council’s executive approved the scheme to harness solar power with PV panels on its buildings at a meeting last Thursday.

Under the plan, solar panels could be installed on a range of council buildings, including housing estates, following consultation with residents. 

A list of buildings thought suitable for the panels is being drawn up and consultation with residents is due to begin next month. 

It is hoped that work could begin later this year and be completed in 2012.

Old Street-based Solar Power Portal, a nationwide information website, said the scheme could ultimately save residents up to £400 a year in electricity bills. 

“Islington is already in the forefront of providing solar electricity,” a spokesman said. 

“Under the previous Lib Dem council more than 100 solar power panels were provided on buildings.”