Council offices and the airport are 'green' examples

As part of a new contract with ESB Independent Energy (ESBie), the main Civic Offices and the City of Derry Airport are supplied with electricity from a 100 per cent renewable source.

Since 2003, Derry City Council has increased its green energy usage to over 50 per cent from a base of 18 per cent facilitated by the introduction of supply from ESBie's renewable sources.

This is line with the Council's environmental strategy which has actively been reducing its energy consumption through various initiatives, resulting in an annual reduction in carbon emissions of over 700 tonnes and a financial saving on energy bills of over 225,000 annually, based on figures for 2006/2007.

"I am absolutely delighted to see Derry City Council is at the forefront in supporting renewable energy sources," said Mayor, Cllr Colum Eastwood.

"I think we are all conscious today of the damage that is being done to the environment and of spiralling energy costs, so Council's move towards 'green' energy is to be welcomed by all.

"This is a great step forward and is helping to encourage clean, sustainable energy supplies for future generations."

Chair of Environmental Services, Cllr Mark H Durkan added: "It is great that at this time of economic difficulties Derry City Council is taking sensible steps to save money on energy bills.

"But what is even better is the fact that we are not only saving money but also helping the environment by using renewable energy."

Aidan Bradley, NI Sales Manager, ESBie, commented: "ESBie is delighted to work with Derry City Council to help them achieve their environmental goals. We have worked closely with the Council to deliver an energy efficient and environmental package, tailored to suit their specific needs and we look forward to supplying them with a first class service over the coming years."