Prime Highlights
- South Tyneside Council secures £540,000 funding to install a large solar system, aiming to reduce emissions and energy costs.
- The project is expected to save over £1 million in the long term while supporting a greener future.
Key Facts
- The solar system will cut around 86 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year once fully operational.
- The project is fully funded through the Mayoral Renewables Fund, with no extra cost to the council.
Background:
South Tyneside Council has received £540,000 to set up a large solar system at its Middlefields depot, which will help cut carbon emissions and lower energy costs over time. The project, backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, is projected to save the council more than £1 million over its lifetime.
The funding comes through the Mayoral Renewables Fund (MRF), part of the government-supported Great British Energy initiative and administered by the North East Combined Authority. Notably, the scheme requires no additional financial contribution from the council.
The project will see a 519kW solar array installed on the depot’s roof. Once running, the system will produce clean electricity and cut about 86 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. Over 25 years, it is expected to save money and help the environment.
Work on the installation is already underway after Rothwell Plumbing Services was selected through a competitive procurement process. The council aims to complete the project by March 2026.
Council leader Tracey Dixon welcomed the investment, stating that the project will help cut emissions at one of the borough’s busiest sites while delivering meaningful cost savings. She said the project shows the council’s focus on tackling climate change and using energy more efficiently in its work.
Mayor Kim McGuinness said such projects help cut emissions, create jobs, improve energy security, and support the local green economy.
The Middlefields solar project adds to other steps taken in the area, such as renewable energy systems and energy-saving upgrades in public buildings, showing a clear move towards a cleaner and stronger future.
