MORE than 7,000 homes in West Bridgford are suitable for solar panels as part of a greener Rushcliffe project.

Members of Rushcliffe Solar scheme spent July and August mapping which roofs had the right conditions for solar photo-voltaic panels, which turn sunlight into electricity.

Residents are now being encouraged to invest in the environmentally-friendly technology.

Depending on the type, size and location, solar panels can cost on average between £10,000 and £15,000 - but can save householders hundreds of pounds each year.

They can get guidance on buying the equipment and installation advice from the Rushcliffe Solar scheme.

It was founded by David Nicholson-Cole, a lecturer in the School of Architecture and the Built Environment at the University of Nottingham.

The scheme was initially given £4,800 by Rushcliffe Borough Council to get started and is now self-financing through sponsorship from installers.

Two senior architectural students at the University of Nottingham, Rain Luo and James Rixon, helped map the town.

Members of Transition West Bridgford have supported it by handing out advice leaflets.

Leaflets have already gone out to almost 2,000 of the properties.

Another 1,000 will be sent information in the coming months.

More will be printed when the budget allows.

Open air "solar surgeries" have been held in Central Avenue, where people could get information and personalised advice.

So far, more than 150 detailed reports have been sent out to people who have inquired about having solar panels on their roofs.

Mr Nicholson-Cole said he hoped they would lead to photo-voltaic panels springing up on West Bridgford homes.

"Now it's up to them. We don't put any pressure on people," he said. "There's no commercial link-up – the service is free and there's no extra charge from the installers."

Mr Nicholson-Cole said West Bridgford was initially targeted because it is an affluent area where people are more likely to be able to afford the initial investment in the technology.

But, as Rushcliffe Solar is no longer dependent on the funding from the borough council, it can open up its help to the rest of the Nottingham area.

Colin Bullett, deputy chief executive at Rushcliffe Borough Council, said: "This project meets the council's priorities to encourage residents to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and to follow sustainable lifestyles."