By Hayley Robinson

Energy levels at a college sports hall have been given a boost.

Ninety-two solar panels have been installed on the roof of the hall at Sittingbourne Community College to generate electricity and heat water.

The system, which cost £98,000 was made possible thanks to funding from the Low Carbon Building Programme, the ScottishPower Green Energy Trust, the Community Sustainable Energy Programme, the KCC Energy Team and the college itself.

It is estimated the eight solar thermal and 84 photovoltaic panels will either save or generate 19,150kWh of power in a full year and reduce the annual carbon footprint of the college by an estimated 8,902kg.

In real terms, this could power 100 TVs or computers for a year; make 693,363 cups of tea; support 127 rotations of the London Eye or light up one home for 36 years.

It also equates to a saving of approximately £1,600 a year on its electricity and gas bill.

A display unit inside the hall shows staff and pupils how much energy has been produced since the system went live last week and the carbon levels being saved.

This is the college's second solar thermal water heating system and its first photovoltaic solar panel array to produce electricity.

Head teacher, Alan Barham said: “The installation of these systems reflects the concerns raised by the students about the environment. The green agenda is important to them and we will use the new systems not only to reduce our carbon footprint but also as an educational tool within the curriculum and beyond with the wider community.”