Carnfunnock boosts its summer energy levels with solar power

3 Aug 2009

Carnfunnock Country Park is celebrating the completion of a new energy project for summer.

The park, which is a popular summer spot for families and school groups, will be playing its role in reducing CO2 emissions by installing a system of solar photovoltaic panels (PV) on the south facing roof of the visitors centre.

The 5kWp PV system will create around 4300 kWh of clean, environmentally friendly electricity. The PV system was funded by Northern Ireland Electricity’s Smart programme, Low Carbon Building Programme Phase 2 and Larne Borough Council and will produce carbon savings of around 2.4 tonnes each year.

Linda McCullough, Director of Development at Larne Borough Council, believes that the PV panels will save money on electricity bills as well as encouraging the community of Larne to adopt renewable energy systems. “The PV panels at Carnfunnock will make savings on our energy bills. Carnfunnock Country Park is leading the way in Northern Ireland’s search for a sustainable future and our PV system will hopefully encourage homeowners to consider if they can adopt renewable energy systems in their homes. It is important that we become as sustainable as possible in Northern Ireland for our generation and future generations to come.”

Northern Ireland Electricity’s Smart programme is keen to offer support to those considering renewable energy systems and are offering grants to top up the Low Carbon Buildings Programme for photovoltaics.

Delta Hamilton from NIE Energy visited Carnfunnock recently to see the PV panels. “Renewable technologies such as photovoltaics have the potential to substantially reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted, helping to prevent climate change. It is hoped that supporting this type of non-polluting energy source will encourage other businesses, schools and homes to invest in sustainable energy solutions”.

The PV panels were supplied by solarcentury and the system was installed by Larne company Select Energy Engineering (SEE).

To find out more about saving energy and renewable energy solutions for your home, school or business check out the NIE Energy website www.nie-yourenergy.co.uk .

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