Council's renewable energy achievements in Carmarthenshire
The council has installed 66 solar photovoltaic (PV) projects since its first installation at Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth in 2011, generating a total of 1,644,000 kWh annually.
Solar thermal systems have also been installed at three schools, Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth, and Ysgol Gynradd Tycroes, to pre-heat domestic hot water and reduce fossil fuel use.
The council has extended its renewable energy efforts to its industrial estate, with Trostre Depot hosting a 49kW solar array and the new Parc Gelli Werdd, a carbon-neutral development at Cross Hands East, featuring a 62kW solar PV array.
Additionally, 125 council-owned homes across the county have been fitted with solar panels.
These efforts are part of initiatives like the Re:Fit Cymru framework, which sees the council installing renewable energy systems as part of a holistic approach to decarbonising its buildings.
The council has committed to using renewable energy to help mitigate climate change, with 100 per cent of the electricity it purchases sourced from renewable energy within Wales and verified by Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) certificates.
As part of its long-term strategy, the council is committed to replacing all corporate fossil fuel use with energy derived from renewable sources.
This supports its net zero carbon targets and aligns with the Welsh Government's ambition for 100 per cent renewable energy by 2035.
Carmarthenshire's Local Area Energy Plan estimates that by 2050, the county could generate 2,860 GWh of renewable energy, exceeding the expected demand of 2,000 GWh.
Councillor Aled Vaughan Owen, cabinet member for climate change, decarbonisation, and sustainability, said: "Earth Day is an opportunity to reflect on the steps we're taking to create a cleaner and greener county.
"As a local authority, we're committed to making real changes, from reducing carbon emissions to promoting renewable energy.
"Every action, big or small, contributes to a more sustainable future for us all."
This year's Earth Day theme is 'Our Power, Our Planet', honouring the benefits of renewable energy.
More information about the council's sustainability efforts can be found on the Carmarthenshire County Council website.
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