Solar panels a viable income generator for local communities A survey carried out by the Heart of Eden Development Trust has identified eight local village halls that could generate electricity to finance local initiatives for the next 40 years. Despite the Government’s announcement that they are cutting Feed In Tariffs (FIT) for photo-voltaic installations, research by the Trust has revealed that it is still economically viable for communities and individuals to install the solar panels to generate income. Carl Bendelow of the Trust said: “We were taken aback at the Government’s announcement as we thought this was an excellent way for communities to make a small income. Representations are being made to the government about the unexpected early implementation date for the new FIT rate which does not give us time to complete community installations we have been planning. “But a survey carried out by Jonty Rostron shows that the cost of the panels has fallen dramatically over the past year and that it is still a viable income generator.” Mr Rostron has carried out a survey of village halls in the Heart of Eden area and identified eight community buildings suitable for solar panel installation. Village halls in Ormside, Great Asby, Colby, Murton, Temple Sowerby, Milburn, Kirkby Thore and Dufton could generate electricity and cash. Mr Rostron said: “I have been investigating and encouraging the fitting of Photo- voltaic panels on village hall roofs on behalf of the Heart of …