Avalon Community Energy met with Glastonbury's MP James Heappey recently at Brookside Academy, a trailblazing school for the use of solar power.

The group discussed its role in Glastonbury's Town Investment Plan bid where they are taking forward £4m of it towards large scale solar, battery storage and electric vehicle charging points.

They also highlighted their school projects, including Brookside Academy and their community benefit fund, designed to lift households into energy efficiencies.

Chair of Avalon Community Energy Stewart Crocker said: "We are delighted to be able to deliver these important benefits to the school, thanks to the vision and commitment of our community investors.

"We are looking forward now to building on the success of this installation to provide a substantial new source of clean energy for Glastonbury."

Mr Heappey said: "It has been wonderful to see the progression of ACE – not least the impact installing the solar panels at Brookside Academy has had, and is continuing to have.

"To engage so well with the school and its pupils is extremely impressive and I will continue to support the fantastic work they do.

"The Glastonbury Clean Energy Project is both ambitious and exciting and the community will benefit from the work the organisation is doing.

"I was delighted to spend some time with the team discussing future plans, and I look forward to supporting these going forward."

Brookside Academy has been benefiting from solar power since 2017 with panels installed by Avalon Community Energy.

Headteacher at Brookside Academy Brian Walton said: "Not only has solar power saved money on our energy costs, we're setting an example to all the families who use our school.

"It is the right thing to do for our school budget, our carbon output and for our community."

To get involved in your local community energy co-op visit https://avaloncommunityenergy.org.uk.