Cornwall has become the first local authority area in the UK to surpass 40,000 renewable energy installations, according to official figures from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). The county now boasts 40,873 installations of various renewable energy technologies, including solar panels and heat pumps.
Growth in Renewable Installations
The MCS, which monitors standards for renewable products and installations, reported that to meet the growing demand in Cornwall, the number of certified installers has risen to nearly 100 in the county. Following Cornwall, North Yorkshire ranks second with 30,688 installations, while Somerset is third with 29,988. Other notable regions include Wiltshire with 24,237 installations and Aberdeenshire with 21,086.
Types of Installations
Within these figures, Cornwall has seen 29,179 solar panel installations and 9,801 heat pumps, which utilize electricity to warm buildings by absorbing heat from the air, ground, or water.
Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
Councillor Martyn Alvey, Cornwall Council’s cabinet member for environment and climate change, emphasized the importance of renewable energy in achieving the county’s carbon neutral ambitions. He stated, “We are pleased to see the positive steps in the amount of renewable energy measures being installed in homes in Cornwall, through retrofitting and other improvements to make homes warmer, greener, and cheaper to run.”
In 2019, Cornwall Council declared a climate emergency and committed to becoming a carbon neutral local authority by 2030. As part of this initiative, the council aims to increase the amount of renewable energy generated locally, with approximately 40% of the county’s energy now reported to come from renewable sources.
Future Projects
To further support these goals, Cornwall Council has earmarked several projects, including the planting of 8,000 hectares (19,768 acres) of trees and hedges in the county and the protection of existing trees, woodlands, and hedges.
Conclusion
Cornwall’s achievement of over 40,000 renewable energy installations not only highlights the region’s commitment to sustainability but also positions it as a leader in the UK’s transition to renewable energy. With ongoing efforts to enhance local renewable energy generation, Cornwall is paving the way for a greener future.
