Councillors in Aberdeen are planning to install nearly 2,500 solar panels on seven schools, offices and other local authority buildings in a bid to slash energy bills.

Aberdeen City Council said the planning applications currently in for the 'roof rental' scheme are to be considered on Thursday (June 14) at a meeting in the Town House.

'Roof rental' schemes allow property-owners to have solar panels installed without the prohibitive installation costs.

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As well as making strides forward in the environmental stakes, Aberdeen City Council will save money on its overall electricity bill once the panels are installed and working.

The council would power council buildings including sheltered housing, schools and offices by buying the electricity generated back.

It is the first local authority in Scotland to apply for a scheme like it.

Planning officials have recommended applications for 147 panels at Rosewell Old People's Home, 144 panels at Bridge of Don Academy, 434 panels at The Jesmond Centre, 424 panels at Oldmachar Academy, 284 panels at Milltimber Primary School, 458 panels at Cults Primary School, and 599 panels at the West Tullos depot for approval.

But the final decision rests in the hands of the Development Management Sub-Committee whose members will consider each application individually on Thursday.

(NE/GK)