An ambitious Kendal-wide investigation has been carried out that could lead to a major change to its townscape and energy production.

Following a recommendation from Kendal Citizens' Jury on Climate Change, Kendal Town Council’s Environment Committee (KTCEC) commissioned a solar audit of the whole town.

The audit used ordnance survey information and speciality mapping software which measured the height of terrain and alignment of every roof in Kendal, to assess which roofs in the town are most suitable for solar generation.

Chair of KTCEC Councillor Eamonn Hennessy said: "The work we have done on this stems from the Kendal Citizens' Jury on Climate Change.

"One of the specific recommendations of the jury was that all tiers of council assess the resources available in the area to generate our own renewable energy.

"I'm so pleased that we have been able to deliver on this request and the results of the audit show real potential."

"We are now looking at how best to not only make this information available publicly but facilitate the process whereby property owners can learn more about the processes and costs associated.

"Working alongside CAFS (Cumbria Action for Sustainability) who have carried out similar work in Burneside and Ambleside, we are looking at two different models for progression.

"One would be a community energy scheme concentrated on the larger suitable buildings in Kendal which would allow all residents to invest and own shares.

"The other would be a “Solar made Easy” project whereby we can present information to residents, provide independent guidance, and look to introduce them to suitable local installers, as well as helping them with some of the logistics such as how to approach planning committees.

"This can be particularly problematic in conservation areas.

Vice-Chair of KTCEC Giles Archibald said: "The solar map is a terrific step forward.

"We want to make it easy for residents to put solar panels on their roofs, should they wish to do so.

"In the future, we also want to explore aggressively a community energy scheme for Kendal, whereby we generate for ourselves much of the energy we use."