Renewable energy is top of the agenda for Dumfries and Galloway Council as they look to borrow £2.2 million for solar panels. The council want to install the renewable products onto a number of its properties, as a way to boost the council’s budget by £6 million.

The solar panels will generate free electricity for the council, while they’ll also earn through the government’s Feed-in tariff scheme and the export tariff. The council are looking at other renewable opportunities too. This could include wind power, geothermal energy and hydroelectricity.

In fact, the council have highlighted the possibility of a small hydroelectricity system on the River Nith in Dumfries. If they’re going to progress with the development the council must act quickly, in order to secure the best possible return.

As it stands, the government is set to reduce Feed-in tariff rates for all renewable energy technologies on April 1. In fact the rate will be more than halved, from 43.3p/kWh to 21p.

A report from the council says there is a “real opportunity” to reduce carbon emissions and energy bills with renewable energy. The environmentally friendly energy products produce free energy by converting natural resources such as solar heat rays, wind and tidal power.

This means the council will be less reliant on fossil fuels such as coal, gas and oil to generate heat and electricity.

Renewable energy products are available domestically too and help homeowners to cut their spending with free energy. Solar panels have proved the most popular because of ease of installation and the Feed-in tariff scheme, but wind turbines and heat pumps have had success in the UK too.

If you’re interested in using renewable energy to cut your bills and carbon emissions, complete our renewable quote form. We’ll then provide you with FREE no obligation quotes on renewable technology from vetted professionals in your area.