I WAS disappointed to learn that at their most recent meeting, Okehampton Town Council property committee rejected the proposal to proceed with the installation of a solar PV array on the roof of Charter Hall.
Solar technology has improved immensely in recent years and it seems senseless to me that councillors should vote against a measure that would considerably reduce town council energy costs, yield an income via the feed-in tariff and potentially lead to a reduction in the local precept.
The decision is particularly surprising after Cllr Leech had thoroughly researched the proposal, obtained a quote for a 10kw installation from a reputable company locally and, with the clerk, spent time completing a planning application that was successfully approved. More so is the fact that earlier this month councillors voted to include a budget for a 4kw PV array in their budget setting process.
If there is fear that installing these panels would be too costly for the council, then I am eager to direct councillors to EDF's Green Fund that awards grants to non-profit organisations for renewable energy projects.
Alternatively, the council could consider funding the project out of their bountiful reserves — after all, this would truly be a beneficial investment for the Okehampton community.
Miss Charlie Peacock
Okehampton resident
I AM appalled to hear of Okehampton Town Council's decision not to install solar PV panels.
I am formerly an Okehampton Community College student. My college invested heavily in the use of renewable energy saving the college money and also making money for the college.
The college has led the way in showing how and why we should generate green energy and reduce our use of fossil fuels.
I expect the town council to lead by example with solar pv and to look for every opportunity to save on their energy costs and make money to invest in our community.
It obviously takes young people to show leadership in this matter and perhaps its about time there were a few younger and better informed people on the town council.
Jake Reeves
I WAS just wondering what year it is? Down here in Okehampton we really need to move with the times. Okehampton Primary School has had their solar panels for a few years now and Okehampton College has them too. Why is our council stuck in the Stone Age? Why wait another four years when this great offer is available now? We need more green energy.
Debbie Sandercock
Okehampton