SOLAR panels on a supermarket roof will give a green energy boost to local groups.

Tesco in Callington has become a host site for a new initiative run by the Tamar Energy Community (TEC).

While the supermarket has benefited from free solar panels and lower electricity bills, £250,000 of the profits generated will be ploughed back into local projects addressing fuel poverty and energy efficiency.

Investors who buy shares in the panels will also receive a percentage, said TED director Kate Royston.

‘We aim to raise £500,000 though a community share offer, which gives people the opportunity to co-own renewable energy installations,’ said Ms Royston. 

‘We plan to use this capital to install rooftop solar PV for free on host organisations. Host organisations receive low-cost electricity, investors receive a fair return and surplus profits enable a community benefit of approximately £250,000 for projects addressing fuel poverty and energy efficiency.’

Tesco Callington was one of the first to sign up to be a host site.

Store manager Martin Hawkins said: ‘We were very keen to support this project, as it benefits the community while cutting our fuel bills and carbon footprint at the same time.’