Gloucestershire public buildings to get solar panels

Solar panels are to be installed on the roofs of public sector buildings in Gloucestershire in a move aimed at saving money.

Gloucestershire County Council believes the panels could save up to £6.5m over the next four years.

A spokesman said the partnership with green energy company BritishEco will see solar systems installed in schools, libraries and council offices.

A number of local jobs are expected to be created by the scheme.

Chas Fellows, the council's cabinet member for environment and economy, said: "Times are tough at the moment.

"We're doing everything we can to save money and find funds to protect services for the most vulnerable.

"This scheme has the added benefit of producing green electricity and creating some local jobs."

The council said 66 properties could have solar systems installed by the end of the year.