The first solar panels have been installed in council homes in Kirklees as part of a £9.2m scheme.

The investment, by Kirklees Council, will help residents save up to £100 a year, rising to £200 annually.

The new solar panels will offer up to an annual carbon saving of 2,000 tonnes and provide an estimated annual return of almost 7% on the investment by Council, as surplus energy will be fed back into the National Grid. It is estimated this will result in £14m income for the council over the next 20 years.

-- Advertisement --

Councillor Cathy Scott, Cabinet Member for Place, said: "This initiative will make a real difference to households at risk of fuel poverty. We will be targeting properties with the poorest efficiency first to make sure those in the greatest need get the support they need.

"Not only will we help households save hundreds of pounds on their bills, essential during this cost of living crisis, but the Council will see a return on its investment."

(CD)