Scotland's first solar meadow is set to open at Edinburgh College.

The site, which is spread across five acres at the Midlothian campus in Dalkeith, features more than 2,500 photovoltaic panels, the BBC has said.

The college has claimed the scheme, which was designed and installed by energy company SSE, would cut its fuel bills. In addition, it said it would help to train its engineering students and to research the impact environment factors – such as the weather – has on the electrical output of the panels.

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Speaking to BBC Radio's Good Morning Scotland programme, Project Manager Professor Steve Tinsley said some people thought he was "mad", but insisted the college had "produced a fantastic project".

He explained: "Up to this point, Scotland produces 500kM of solar PV energy. With this project we have now trebled that."

Richard Chandler, SSE's Head of Green Deal and Energy Solutions, added: "The Solar Meadow will generate enough energy to power 170 homes. It's also a fine example of how industry and education can work well together.

"This project will bring benefits to the college, its students and the wider community as well as further strengthening Scotland's renewable energy resources."

The site is one of the most northerly solar power installations in Europe and its research will focus on the interplay between biodiversity and solar technology.

To assist with this, the site will be planted with wild grasses and flowers.

(JP/CD)