Landmark buildings in Cambridge are soon to be recognized for their solar generating power as the council looks to cash in on the Government’s feed-in tariff scheme. By installing solar panels on buildings such as the Corn Exchange and on the roofs of Parkside pools the £430,000 project will also reduce the area’s carbon footprint.

Combining the feed-in tariff payments with funds gathered by selling surplus energy back to the national grid, the scheme is expected to bring in £1 million. It is also hoped the city council’s carbon footprint will be reduced by 1,500 tonnes.

The scheme will also be open to sheltered housing schemes including Ditton Court in Abbey, Whitefriars in Chesterton, and School Court in Romsey. Tenants living in these properties will benefit from reduced energy bills through a discount on their service charge.

The city homes north office on Arbury Road and New Street hostel are also set to have panels installed.

Cllr Sian Reid, the council leader said, “As a council we are keen to make the most of new Government initiatives, and I’m delighted that we are making this investment in reducing our fuel bills and our carbon footprint.

“The solar panels will be up and running before March 31 next year to make sure we get the maximum income for the taxpayer from this investment.”

Cllr Catherine Smart, the authority’s Housing Chief said, “With electricity prices set to rise dramatically, combating fuel poverty is a priority for the council and we look to reduce fuel bills for our tenants wherever possible. 

“This builds on our previous £43 million investment in the energy efficiency of council homes in recent years under the Decent Homes scheme and a range of other initiatives we have taken on climate change and housing in Cambridge.”