At a time when national energy supplies are becoming increasingly uncertain and global markets remain unpredictable, renewables are being used to strengthen West Mercia Police’s long term electricity resilience.
Through the Invest-to‑Save programme, 750 solar panels will be installed on the roof of the Operational Control Centre (OCC) at West Mercia Police’s Headquarters at Hindlip Hall.
Led by Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion’s Estates team in collaboration with West Mercia Police, the project will significantly expand the force’s use of on‑site renewable energy.
Expected to achieve a return on investment within five years, the installation will reduce annual energy costs by approximately £120,000 annually, cut carbon emissions by an estimated 169 tonnes each year, and generate enough clean electricity to power around 150 homes.
Alongside the financial and environmental benefits, the project will provide a more secure and sustainable source of electricity for the OCC and contribute positively to the wider grid.
PCC John Campion said: “People want to know that their police budget is being spent in the most effective way – especially on frontline policing, where it makes the greatest difference.
“With maximising resources and value for money a key commitment in my Safer Communities Plan, this project, alongside others in development, is about making sensible financial decisions now so that long‑term savings can strengthen services and ensure resources are focused on the public’s priorities.”
Richard Muirhead, Director of Commercial Service at West Mercia Police said: “The OCC is the busy centre of West Mercia Police’s operations and the installation of solar panels here is not only the best decision in terms of environmental sustainability, but a sound financial decision with the money saved going back into frontline policing for the benefit of the communities we serve.”
Pictures shows from left to right, Richard Muirhead, Director of Commercial Service at West Mercia Police, Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion, and Head of Estate Services, Chris O'Hara.
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