Homes in two areas of Barrow are set to benefit from the installation of solar technology as part of the ambitious Low Carbon Barrow programme.
Work is set to begin this week to add photovoltaic panels to 21 buildings owned by Barrow Borough Council in the Yew Tree and Roosegate areas.
The scheme will help to lower household energy bills as well as reducing overall carbon usage across the borough.
The move to add solar panels to a number of residential properties follows the award of planning consent earlier this month for the technology to be added to the roof of The Dock Museum.
The work will be undertaken by Aberla Group.
Ann Thomson, leader of Barrow Borough Council, said: “These solar panels will be hugely beneficial to both residents and the area in general – by moving some of our energy needs to a renewable source.
“This will bring us one step closer to achieving carbon neutral status as a borough – a priority for the council – while also helping to make the planet a cleaner and greener place.”
Low Carbon Barrow is a scheme launched by Barrow Borough Council in 2021 thanks to funding secured from the European Regional Development Fund and Cumbria LEP.
It includes a series of innovative projects which aim to reduce carbon emissions across the area while supporting its economic growth.
In addition to installing photovoltaic panels to The Dock Museum and some public housing, the scheme will also soon see the installation of LED lighting at The Forum, to include the lighting of the stage, public and conference areas of the building.
Councillor Thomson added: “It’s brilliant to see these Low Carbon Barrow initiatives becoming a reality.
“We need to do all we can to lessen the impact of climate change upon the planet. These schemes will certainly contribute to that, but, with energy prices rising, they will also make a positive difference to residents in our communities as well.”
