Watford Borough Council have revealed that both the Colosseum and Watford Town Hall have now installed solar photovoltaics (PV) as part of energy efficiency measures.
The improvements, which include the installation of over 180 solar panels, had been achieved via a £3.2 million grant provided by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Of this, 144 solar PV panels have been installed on the roof of the Town Hall and 36 on the Colosseum – an entertainment venue.
Alongside solar, the Council have also sought thermal energy efficiency improvements to minimise heat loss. This decreases the strain on the grid with more heat able to be retained within buildings.
The decarbonisation project represents a “crucial element” of the council's 10-year Town Hall Quarter programme, which via eight interconnected projects, is looking to stimulate substantial investment in the area over the next decade. It is also looking to be carbon neutral by 2030.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “I am pleased that we have successfully completed our energy efficiency works in the Colosseum and Town Hall, taking another step closer towards our goal of being carbon neutral by 2030.
“These iconic buildings have been transformed into beacons of sustainability. These buildings will benefit from the installation of solar panels, thermally efficient windows and enhanced insulation, as well as improved lighting and heating systems.
“This will not only result in substantial cost savings but also serve as a model for other councils striving to create greener and more energy-efficient communities."
In other news, Solar Power Portal reported earlier today (13 June) that Surrey County Council has relaunched a community-led initiative that could provide residents with the ability to install solar panels, EV chargers and battery storage for less.
