Stirling councillors have agreed on funding for the Castleview Green Energy Hub.

The £1.65 million scheme has secured 70% of its funding from Transport Scotland's Low Carbon Transport and Travel Fund with the remainder provided by Stirling Council (£496,000).

The project will see solar canopies cover 360 car parking bays to generate and store energy for the smart charging of 22 electric vehicles and e-bikes. It is expected to provide a return of just over £5.76 million over a 25-year period, based on assumed Electronic Vehicle (EV) uptake. 

Members of the Finance and Economy Committee also gave approval for officers to enter into an appropriate procurement process. 

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Convener of the Finance and Economy Committee, Councillor Margaret Brisley said: "Stirling Council's vision is for the city region to align with the most successful cities across the globe by becoming a lead in progressive sustainable development.  

"This exciting, forward-thinking initiative puts Stirling at the forefront of the low carbon revolution and will encourage more drivers to go electric."

The number of EV cars in Scotland is projected to rise by 30 per cent every year up until 2032, when fossil fuelled cars and light vans in Scotland will be banned.

Vice Convener of the Finance and Economy Committee, Councillor Alison Laurie said: "Electric vehicles are the future and the absence of an EV charging infrastructure across Stirling would inevitably impact on transport systems and people's ability to travel to and from Stirling.

"This ambitious scheme demonstrates our commitment to green energy to citizens, commuters and visitors."

Excess stored energy from the scheme will be sold to the National Grid and/or external consumers, bringing further revenue back to the Council.

Electric bike charging will be installed, along with modified travel links. The proposal includes charging infrastructure for an electric bus option in the future.

(CM/LM)