Bournemouth council has announced plans to install photovoltaic solar panels on another 500 council properties following a successful pilot scheme earlier this year. The project is set to begin next month and is expected to be complete by March 2012. The panels are not only being installed on council homes but also some primary schools are set to benefit from solar energy, the Pavillion Theatre and a number of other council owned properties.

Robert Lawton, who is the cabinet member for housing and environment said; "We are one of the first authorities in the south to install solar PV systems on our housing and other council buildings. Following our successful pilot scheme with our own PV installation service we are now in a position where we can roll out solar PV systems more widely to include all suitable council housing, care homes and schools."

This plan is part of the council's commitment to becoming a greener town, not only do the solar panels reduce carbon emissions but they also help to cut the cost of electricity bills. The project is expected to create between 20 and 40 new jobs in the local area, helping to boost the job market. Bournemouth Council is keen to reduce the area's carbon footprint and to help their tenants save money, making solar panels the perfect solution.