URL: https://democracy.northdevon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4605

Decision Maker: Strategy and Resources Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: The Committee considered the following notice of motion by Council on 22 April 2026 which had been referred to the Committee for consideration:   “(a)      To actively encourage partnerships with private and public sector organisations to maximise the use of existing infrastructure for renewable energy projects.   (b)       To call upon government to develop policies that align with these priorities and provide financial incentives for rooftop and car park solar projects as and when funding becomes available.”   In response to questions by the Committee, the Director of Resources and Deputy Chief Executive advised the following:   That the Council was anticipating that Great British Energy would make available potential funding for renewable energy projects on local authority buildings.  In preparation for that, South West Net Zero hub were in the process of collating details of local authority projects.  The Council would look to put forward projects at Green Lanes, Brynsworthy Environment Centre, Barnstaple Pannier Market, Barnstaple Bus Station, Tarka Tennis and solar on some car parks. In relation to Green Lanes, it was proposed to upgrade the LED lighting at a cost of £100,000 and instal PV solar panels on the top deck of the car park at a cost of £300,000 which would benefit retailers and tenants through the service charges.  It would potentially generate energy savings by reducing current annual lighting costs by approximately £32,000 and energy costs of £37,000 following the installation of PV panels which could achieve a total £70,000 savings per year and the costs would be repaid within six years.  If external funding was secured, the net costs would be reduced further.  The project had been previously identified and funding for wider capital improvements at Green Lanes had been allocated within the Capital Programme. There may be potential to instal PVs on the lower deck of the car park in the future. As part of the capital programme, the flooring at Green Lanes had been upgraded and remedial works had been carried out on the roof.  The recent works to the roof would potentially alleviate the need to carry out significant capital works to the roof in the short term.   RESOLVED that the notice of motion be adopted and that the Climate Action Team be requested to look at the detail of how the Council can actively encourage partnerships with private and public sector organisations to maximise the use of existing infrastructure for renewable energy projects.  

Date of Decision: June 15, 2026