PV solar panels bring Cornwall closer to renewable energy goal

Posted by Robert Shields

A team dedicated to making Cornwall into a world leader in renewable energy resources has moved one step closer to its objective, by fitting photovoltaic (PV) solar panels to the county hall.

Cornwall Council''s Green Cornwall initiative has recently installed 130 PV solar panels on the roof of New County Hall in Truro, the Cornish Guardian has reported.

Harnessing above-average levels of sunlight enjoyed by the area, a bank of solar panels will power lights and computers in the council building.

Talking to the newspaper, Julie German, local cabinet member for climate change, said that the project would go a long way towards positioning the region as a leader in eco-friendly practices.

She said: ''This is a truly groundbreaking project which clearly demonstrates Cornwall Council''s commitment to leading the way in tackling climate change.

Ms German added that the benefits of renewable energy are ''huge'' and that the PV solar panels would provide a ''secure'' and ''long-term'' power source.

This development comes after it was announced recently that proposals for a £40 million network of solar power stations could be rolled out across the West Country in coming months, potentially tripling the UK''s solar energy output.