It’s hoped that Swanage’s green credentials will grow with the launch of a new solar panels scheme.
The Swanage Solar Streets project will enable residents and business owners to get solar panels for their properties at a discounted rate.
This initiative forms a part of the town’s battle against the climate emergency while also helping to support the local community. Every time panels are installed through the project, there will be a donation to the Sustainable Swanage Community Fund.
The scheme will be formally launched by solar panels company, IDDEA Renewable Energy Systems in a live Zoom Q&A event for all residents on Wednesday 17th March 2021 at 7pm.
Greener Swanage
Solar panels purchased under this scheme will be put into place by IDDEA – which has installed more than 1,000 panels throughout the south of England since its inception in 2008.
Other towns to benefit from the bulk purchase of solar panels through similar schemes, include Frome, Glastonbury, Wells, Bruton and Castle Cary.
The recently built Swanage School has solar panels on its south-facing roof
More “clean energy in our community”
During a full council meeting on Monday 25th January 2021, Swanage Town Council discussed the Solar Streets plan.
In a briefing document, it said that Swanage Town Council had undertaken due diligence on this scheme. This included the following:
- Sought advice from other authorities who have undertaken this process
- Ensured that both companies are registered at Companies House and have no outstanding issues identified
- Reviewed the type and style of marketing undertaken for other authorities
- Reviewed the websites of the partners
- Reviewed social media and other ‘independent’ sources of information about the company and the scheme
- Undertaken a price comparison with other PV installers
Welcoming the project Mike Bonfield, Mayor of Swanage, said:
“Since Swanage Town Council declared a climate crisis in 2019 it has been working with Sustainable Swanage and other environmental groups to reduce carbon emissions.
“Solar Streets is a great way for local residents to learn more about the installation of solar panels and I would encourage everyone to investigate this opportunity to increase the use of clean energy in our community.”
Sustainable Swanage
The Swanage Solar Streets scheme has been made possible through the partnership of IDDEA with Sustainable Swanage – a group established to promote environmental protection.
Its other projects have included fundraising to buy more trees for Swanage High Street.
Sarah Spurling of Sustainable Swanage said:
“At Sustainable Swanage we work on projects that help our community lower their carbon footprint and improve the local environment.
“We are really excited by the Solar Streets project, it is a fantastic opportunity for our community, it fits with our aims and helps residents access renewable energy options more easily and at a reduced cost.”
Find out more
- The launch meeting at 7 pm on Wednesday 17th March 2021 will include a presentation followed by questions. Residents can register for the event here.
- To find out about taking part in the Swanage Solar Streets scheme, visit the project’s website.
- More information about IDDEA Renewable Energy Systems can be found on its website
