SOLAR panels will be installed at the Alpine Shire Council offices in Bright this month, in a move that’s expected to save about $3000 annually.

Alpine Shire Council mayor Peter Roper said the initiative was part of council’s commitment to reducing expenditure on electricity and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

"The 2009-13 council plan seeks to identify and implement environmentally efficient projects and buildings to deliver water conservation and energy efficient design," Cr Roper said.

Council this month awarded the tender for the design, supply and installation of the solar photovoltaic system to the Myrtleford-based supplier Adam Cartwright Electrical.

The system will be installed later this month.

Cr Roper said the annual savings from the installation of the 10kw system would be about $3000.

These savings will be monitored and combined with other electricity saving measures.

"This equates to around $75,000 to $105,000 of savings over the life of the panels (25 to 35 years), with roughly a 10 to 11 year payback period," Cr Roper said.

The installation is also part of council’s commitment to the Solar North East project.

The project operates across the municipalities of Alpine, Benalla, Indigo, Mansfield, Towong, Wangaratta and Wodonga.

The program provides residents and businesses with support to reduce their energy consumption and determine the most suitable solar system for their needs.

Council’s solar ambassador, Claire Stock, is available for questions on 5755 0555.

She will be able to provide assistance for anyone wishing to find more information on how switching to solar can save them money and help benefit the environment.

Visit Alpine Shire Council’s website www.alpineshire.vic.gov.au for further information about solar installations and also the wider project.