Neale-Wade Academy in March is set to generate its own electricity with the installation of solar panels.

The school in Wimblington Road has signed up to the energy initiative offered by Cambridgeshire County council.

According to county council leader Steve Count the school will save around £9,000 a year by generating its own power.

Writing on his online blog Cllr Count said: “This news is of special relevance to me, as it was the Neale-Wade that gave me an excellent education providing a head start in life.

“It is nice to think that in some small way I am part of an organisation that has been able to assist the college after so many years.”

Cllr Count explained the council has so far invested over £4m in this type of energy efficiency project in schools and public buildings across the county, achieving an average 14 per cent reduction in energy use.

“In terms of the projects where we have signed contracts, the savings amount to £1.3 million per year across the county council and schools.”

The council is also looking to install a 50 kW solar photovoltaic system at March Library. The proposed installation is currently in the planning review phase with installation expected by the end of the year.