A Guide to Solar PV Projects for Local Authorities and Other Public Bodies is the first detailed guide for public sector bodies on how to undertake a PV project as part of a renewable energy or climate change strategy. It is intended as a guide for anyone in a local authority who is planning a solar project, whether they are technical officers, members of policy groups, asset managers, or those in the functional areas such as leisure, education or housing. Cabinet members, portfolio holders and other local authority personnel may also benefit from it.
The book examines why local authorities should be investing in renewable energy, how to go about it and the forming of the all-important business and financial case that will underpin it. It takes the reader through every stage of the process and the author debunks the mystique of solar PV projects by clearly explaining their value. Its approach is positive and encouraging, whilst making it clear that it is up to each authority to decide whether to go for renewable energy.
The book is written in association with the Renewable Energy Association (REA) who’s Chief Executive, Gaynor Hartnell commented: “Solar PV has suffered from poor publicity since the reduction of the Feed-in Tariffs and the implementation of a new system of tariff degression by the Government. This is unfortunate, given its spectacular cost reduction. PV is now on track to become one of the cheapest forms of renewable electricity generation. We are therefore delighted that Stephen Cirell has produced such a clear guide to inform all members and officers of local authorities about the real position.”
Stephen Cirell is a well known expert on local government law who also specialises in local authority climate change policy.
“The normal corporate agenda of the local authority and the green agenda are almost perfectly aligned at the present time” he said. “This means that if a Council wants growth, jobs and income, the green agenda is the best bet for delivering them. Government subsidies may have been criticised, but they are available and so the public sector should have their share.”
The book costs £100 but is available at a 50% discount to any member of a public body.
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