Solar panels to be installed on public buildings

Jersey Electricity and the Government of Jersey have announced plans to install solar panels on public buildings.

The electricity company will project manage, design, install and maintain the arrays, with the renewable power being distributed through the grid.

It said that schools represent a "significant opportunity", but carparks, depot buildings and other civic premises will all be considered with detailed surveys.

Minister for Infrastructure, Andy Jehan, said, that reaching this agreement is a significant moment for locally-generated renewable power.

"Government has a responsibility to lead on sustainability and deliver value for our Island; ensuring that energy produced from our buildings benefits the community is central to that commitment", he said.

Chris Ambler, CEO of Jersey Electricity, said, "It's excellent news that we have agreed terms with government to progress rooftop solar on public buildings as we have been working on this for some time.

"This is a major step forward in building local renewable electricity generation and shows our shared commitment to sustainability.

"Every site generating local renewable power helps to build our Island's energy sovereignty with the electricity generated being socialised across all our customers via the grid."

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