Go to previous story
Email to a friend
Print articleFree solar panels have been fitted to 24 bungalows on the Alderwood Lodge Estate in Speke. The panels produce up to 80 per cent of the hot water needed for each home and work all-year-round.
Councillor Marilyn Fielding, Liverpool's executive member for Housing and Neighbourhood Services said:
?I think using renewable energy to cut energy bills for some of our most vulnerable citizens is inspired. It cuts carbon emissions and allows residents to save a bit of cash which can be used for other things.
?It also shows that Liverpool takes its environmental responsibilities very seriously and aims to be a leading local authority in the use of renewable energy.?
Resident Frances Smith said:
?The new panels are great - You don't have to switch the electricity on to heat the water as it happens automatically. It hasn't been the best weather recently but I have only had to switch on once for an hour.?
Another resident added:
?I used to spend over ?20 a week on heating and hot water and now it's under a tenner. I think every home should have them fitted.?
All of the ?60,000 work was paid for by government grants at no cost to council tax payers. The fully-guaranteed panels will be maintained by specialist government-approved contractors.
If the pilot projects prove a success the sun's rays could be heating hot water and homes across the city. Liverpool City Council also uses electricity from renewable sources to power every school, council building, library and street light in the city.
