East Renfrewshire Council invests £1.8m in solar and LED upgrades

East Renfrewshire Council are investing £1.8 million in energy-saving measures to reduce energy costs for the council.  

The programme will see solar panels installed on three council sites and energy-efficient LED lighting introduced across six locations. The council estimates the measures will generate annual savings of around £185,000, with the investment expected to pay for itself within five to 10 years through reduced energy expenditure.  

Funding for the project will come from the council’s Investment in the Future Reserve, a £12.8 million fund established using money made available through temporary reductions in employer contributions to the Strathclyde Pension Fund. 

Council Leader Owen O’Donnell said: "Council finances are extremely challenging, and we know that this will only get tougher in the years ahead. With rising energy costs an ongoing issue, investing wisely now will support reducing our costs in the future. These schemes will reduce our energy costs and represent a sensible spend to save investment. In addition to the ongoing cost savings, by investing in solar power and more efficient lighting, we're cutting carbon emissions, reducing energy use and creating more sustainable spaces for our staff, pupils and communities. These are practical changes that will make a real difference now and in the years ahead." 

Work these projects is scheduled to begin in 2027 and is expected to take approximately 12 months to complete.