PEOPLE in Cheshire West are being encouraged to reduce their carbon footprint by generating their own electricity.

A new video produced by Cheshire West and Chester Council entitled Solar Panels For Your Home features interviews with homeowners in the area who have had solar panels fitted.

The film outlines how the technology works and shows the installation process, which usually takes no longer than a day.

And as well as helping the environment and saving on electricity bills, people could also benefit by selling surplus energy to power companies.

The Government’s ‘feed-in tariff’ incentive scheme enables electricity to be sold via the National Grid at a current rate of 43.1p per KW.

The council’s executive member for community and environment, Cllr Lynn Riley, said: “As a council, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and supporting our communities to help them to do the same.

“More and more homeowners are now realising the benefits of solar power and, with energy bills continuing to rise, there is no better time to consider installing this technology on your property.

“The initial financial outlay required means it is not for everyone but, if you have savings, investing in solar technology might produce better returns than an ISA.

“I would urge anyone considering installing solar panels to view the video or to contact our Sustainability Team, who can answer questions and provide advice on the subject.”

You can view the video at www.cheshirewest.tv/categories/my-world/film/sustainable-west-cheshire. Further information is available on www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk or the Sustainability Team on 01244 972419.