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Government Announces More Funding For Solar Power

Posted: 25/05/2005

The government have announced another round of funding for Photovoltaic installations. More than a million pounds has been awarded to a range of solar energy projects across the UK. Public buildings including churches, schools and museums will be able to use the latest environment-friendly technology to tackle the impacts of climate change. Photovoltaic systems convert sunlight directly into electricity, even on cloudy days.

For every year a typical system operates, one tonne of carbon dioxide emissions can be avoided. Each installation, funded by the DTI, contributes to the Government's aim of generating 10 per cent of the UK's electricity needs from renewable resources by 2010. Since the establishment of the scheme, 180 medium and large-scale projects throughout the UK have been granted funding.

Energy minister Malcolm Wicks said: "This round of funding will boost solar generation throughout the UK. These projects will produce clean, renewable electricity that will put the drive for secure energy that doesn't harm the environment right at the heart of local communities."

The scheme is administered by The Energy Saving Trust, who say " The four-year PV programme seeks to make considerable headway in preparing a secure market platform for long-term and sustained growth. With grant funding available to a wide audience, it is hoped the technology will become an attractive investment for domestic to large corporate customers. Long-term sustained investment could result in a ten-fold increase in photovoltaic installations by 2005. The programme should also result in a reduction in the costs of installation for the future".

Substantial grants of between 40 and 50 per cent are available towards the installation of solar electricity equipment, whether you're a householder, business or social housing group. You can apply today by visiting the website below or by calling their helpline on 0800 298 3978.

There are two types of grant available: Stream 1 grants for small scale PV installations between 0.5kWp and 5kWp: Stream 2 grants for medium to large scale PV installations between 5kWp and 100kWp

Green Building Press  
 
www.est.org.uk/solar/

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