A pioneering project aims to show how installing free solar panels on 50 homes in Leicester can help to relieve fuel poverty. Residents are able to generate their own electricity with the photovoltaic panels being installed through the Braunstone Solar Streets initiative.
This £500,000 project truly deserves an Environment City Buildings award because it will be the largest of its kind in the country. The scheme is managed by Environ and funded by the Department of Trade and Industry, Braunstone Community Association and the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund.
Ben Dodd, Communications Manager for Environ, said: "This is a really exciting project because it will make Braunstone a leading light for renewable energy. This initiative will demonstrate how renewable energy can work on a large scale and also show how solar panels can be used to help individuals overcome fuel poverty. Residents have received the photovoltaic equipment free of charge and they will benefit from lower electricity bills as they generate their own power."
All of the photovoltaic panels will be installed in Webster Road, Wellinger Way, Gallards Hill, Hockley Farm Road and Hand Avenue by September, 2004. The 50 houses have been selected because they have south and east-facing roofs, which make them ideal for the equipment.
They are amongst 200 houses which are being renovated by Leicester Housing Association (LHA) in partnership with Leicester-based social enterprise construction company, Newlife. The houses were transferred to LHA after Braunstone residents voted two-to-one in favour of having them renovated rather than demolished. LHA's £6.24m rescue plan allowed these properties to be recycled - instead of rebuilt - saving tonnes of valuable building materials from going to waste.
Keith Horton, from Leicester Housing Association, said: "This is a landmark regeneration scheme which is all about improving the quality of life for people in Braunstone in a sustainable way. The solar panels are a very visible demonstration of our commitment to that objective." These houses have also been made more energy efficient with extensive insulation and double glazing.
To find out more about the Braunstone Solar Streets project call Environ Communications Team Manager Ben Dodd on 0116 222 0293 or email bdodd@environ.org.uk. Further information about Environ's work is available at www.environ.org.uk.
Outstanding environmental features:
Photovoltaic systems
Other green features:
Extensive insulation, double glazing throughout and recycled materials in the building fabric.