Car park covered in solar panels to light up Stirling

Spaces at park and ride site to be covered with solar panels to generate power for the city.

20th Aug 2020

Electricity gained from a car park covered in solar panels is to be used to light streets and buildings in Stirling.

Work to transform the Castleview Park and Ride site started earlier this month.

Solar canopies will cover 132 parking spaces, with the electricity produced to be used to light buildings and streets and charge electric bikes and vehicles.

The Castleview Solar Energy Hub is expected to generate 240,000kWh annually.

The project will also install 32 electric vehicle chargers.

An e-bike share scheme, bike lockers and improved paths into the city centre are also being brought in.

Councillor Jim Thomson, the convener of Stirling Council’s environment and housing committee, said: “This is a massive step forward in our aims to protect the environment and encourage more sustainable modes of transport.

“Castleview is a strategic location for residents and visitors and the installation of these solar panels and a range of chargers will make it a landmark on Scotland’s growing green energy highway infrastructure.”

If this pilot project is successful, Stirling Council plans to also install hubs at other locations, including in rural areas.

Parking will only be available in the bottom portion of the site whilst the works continue.