YORK’S Green Party has drawn up a plan to borrow £1 million to install solar panels on council buildings.

As part of their budget proposals for next year, the City of York Council group said the move would boost renewable energy levels by using a Government scheme which guarantees a fixed income for all power generated over the next 25 years.

Green leader Coun Andy D’Agorne, pictured, said: “The council is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and this measure would prove its commitment is sincere.

“It would provide free daytime electricity to building occupants with an average household saving of at least £100 a year. This will contribute to tackling fuel poverty while helping to create local jobs and kickstarting the green economy in York.”

The project is based on a scheme brought in by Kirkless Council, where Green councillors secured a £13.9 million investment in solar technology for council houses.

“Everybody predicts the cost of energy will keep increasing and the council will have to pass on these higher running costs in future council tax increases unless it invests now in clean renewable energy sources,” said Coun D’Agorne.

The council’s 2011/12 budget will be finalised on Thursday.