An award-winning business centre in Jaywick Sands is shining even brighter after new solar panels were successfully installed, helping to reduce the building’s carbon footprint.

The Tendring District Council-run Sunspot is now benefiting from the new solar technology, which is expected to reduce carbon emissions by around 15 tonnes a year, equivalent to approximately 50,000 miles of car travel, while potentially cutting running costs by as much as £10,000 annually.

The investment is another positive step in the council’s work to improve the sustainability of its buildings, reduce energy use and deliver long-term value.

Councillor Adrian Smith, TDC Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “This is really positive news for Sunspot and another practical step towards making our council buildings more sustainable.

“Generating clean, renewable energy on site is good news environmentally and financially, and these panels will continue delivering benefits for years to come.”

Pyramid Eco, themselves a Sunspot tenant, were appointed by TDC to install the solar panels following a competitive tender process.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The new solar panels strengthen Sunspot’s sustainability credentials and will help make the building even more attractive to businesses looking for a modern and environmentally responsible place to operate.

“We appreciate the patience and understanding Sunspot businesses and customers have shown during the installation.”

As part of the project, Pyramid Eco held a Community Wellbeing Day at Sunspot, helping residents access advice and support on wellbeing, reducing energy costs and keeping homes warm.

Pyramid Eco Managing Director Michael Zohouri said: “The event brought together a wide range of organisations offering practical advice and support to local residents as the colder months approach.

“We hope to be able to host another session in the New Year to reach even more people.

“We are proud to have worked on such an important project at Sunspot with a team made up of mostly local workers.”

The solar panel project was funded through the Community Regeneration Partnership, a £20 million investment programme from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, delivered locally by the council through a range of projects in Clacton and Jaywick Sands.

For more information on government-funded projects in the district, click here.