Solar power in the South West has received a major cash grant from the government.

Three projects in the region will share nearly �300,000 to charge up their solar schemes.

Projects in Bristol, Wiltshire and Somerset will all benefit from the grants, awarded as part of a �2.2m government package.

The three projects are the new Barton Hill health centre in Bristol; a heating scheme for housing association tenants in Westlea and a renovation programme at a Somerset council.

Brian Wilson, Minister for Energy, said solar energy should make a real contribution to the UK's energy mix.

"It is now crucial that the right foundations are put in place."

The grants are the latest round in the government's �20m commitment to solar energy projects as part of its renewable energy policy.