HAMPSHIRE County Council has proved that it pays to be green after it exceeded its ambitious target of reducing its carbon emissions by 20 per cent.

The local authority’s Cabinet originally set the target in 2010 and the council has already reduced its emissions by more than 30,000 tonnes of CO2 over five years – a total of 22.8 per cent.

According to the county council, the avoided cost of energy at current rates is around £2.7million, with a further £275,000 of carbon tax savings achieved this year alone.

In addition, the installation of 20 solar photovoltaic systems across the county council’s schools estate is delivering efficiency savings of £20,000 per year.

A second round of 20 new installations is now underway.

Councillor Mel Kendal, executive member for income and capital receipts, said: “This achievement demonstrates the success of the County Council’s proactive approach to carbon reduction, resulting in energy cost savings and a healthier outlook for Hampshire’s environment. It was a challenging target and we have exceeded it.

“Our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint is protecting Hampshire’s environment, enabling us to make savings on energy costs and generate income from the national grid through the use of renewable technologies.

“I believe it is important that the County Council takes a lead in this important area that delivers additional benefits beyond the substantial cost savings.”

Cllr Kendal added: “The emissions and savings achieved are thanks to an innovative programme of carbon reduction projects implemented across the County Council’s estate, through the use of leading-edge technology.

“In schools and office buildings, maintenance improvements such as re-roofing projects and boiler and lighting replacements have contributed substantially to the saving.

"Carbon management is also a key consideration in all new building projects designed by the County Council’s in-house Property Services designers and engineers – and is considered not just in new buildings, but in refurbishments and extensions as well.

"A major programme of street lighting replacement has also contributed strongly to the reductions.”

To find out more, visit hants.gov.uk.