Mold-based Green Energy North Wales to install solar panels at castle

Oct 27 2011 by Lois York, Flintshire Chronicle

GREEN Energy North Wales, which has an office in Mold, has been awarded a contract to develop the use of solar energy in and around National Trust properties.

Alan Andrews, owner of Green Energy North Wales, met up with Wales’ First Minister, Carwyn Jones AM, and members of the National Trust, where details of the 10kw project to install 40 Solar panels at Powis Castle, were discussed.

This project will be one the first to be installed in a National Trust property, with more to follow.Wrexham-based Sharp are supplying the panels.

The First Minister said: “The National Trust carries out important work protecting our heritage, and harnessing renewable energy will play a part in this.

“Using sustainable sources of energy is essential if we are to continue to reduce Wales’ carbon footprint.”

The project is the first of at least 10 sites to be put up around National Trust properties in Wales.

The 10kw system, which is equivalent to almost three domestic house installations, will provide electricity to the estate during the day, with a further income being generated from the Feed In Tariff, giving an estimated pay back within seven years.

Ken Smith, National Trust communications consultant, said the solar panels will be completely covered by hedges and will not be seen by the public visiting the castle.

He said: “We are conscious of our heritage and the National Trust’s commitment to using local contractors and small businessmen, which is why Green Energy North Wales was selected for the project.”

Alan Andrews, of Green Energy North Wales, estimates that as a result of this project, at least six more jobs will be created.