Clean Energy (Yorkshire) Gives Public Loos Green Makeover

HARROGATE, ENGLAND, September 16, 2010 (Press-News.org) The company was commissioned by Harrogate Borough Council to install a solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the toilets in Knaresborough, that would not only reduce energy costs, but also meet local conservation area regulations.

To achieve this, the Clean Energy (Yorkshire) team fitted a total of 15 solar tiles, as opposed to solar panels, capable of generating 1kw of power, to the roof of the Fisher Street toilets.

The system uses the sun's rays to create electricity through the solar tiles, which can even generate electricity on dull, cloudy days. This green electricity helps power lights and hand driers within the lavatories, reducing the authority's energy bills.

Clean Energy's managing director Spencer Cassidy said: "The Council chose us because we were able to satisfy their exact requirements, namely fitting a solar energy system that didn't harm the look of a conservation area.

"We have a number of solutions when it comes to solar PV systems. Panels are the ones that most people are familiar with. For this project we opted for tiles. They are very slim and fit flush to the roof.

"This scheme, which took us two days to complete, demonstrates that clean energy solutions can be incorporated into virtually any building, both public and privately owned. Solar PV is the most versatile source of renewable energy. It can be incorporated into building facades, glass areas, even as Juliette balconies."

Harrogate and Knaresborough MP Andrew Jones said: "Knaresborough is very dependent on visitors to the town and these public facilities were very outdated.

"During my time as Harrogate Council's Cabinet Member for Finance, the rebuilding of these toilets was a project I initiated. One of the core elements of the scheme was for it to include a number of environmental measures.

"In addition to the solar panels are sun tunnels making greater use of the natural light, and a grey water harvesting system which uses rainwater to flush the toilets.

"This is a scheme of which Knaresborough, the Council and the District can be proud."

A total of GBP150,000 was spent on the entire project. The toilets, which are free with 24-hour access, now include family facilities and a small office for the attendant.

Further details about the Clean Energy (Yorkshire) range are available from its website http://www.cleanenergy-uk.com, or by calling Spencer and his team on 01423 541 315.