Celebrating Earth Day 2025

In support of Earth Day (22 April) Carmarthenshire County Council is celebrating its efforts to install renewable energy systems.

This year’s theme is Our Power, Our Planet, honouring the benefits of renewable energy.

Since its first solar photovoltaics (PV) installation at Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth in 2011, the Council has expanded to 66 solar PV projects, with a total 1,644,000 kWh generated annually.

Solar thermal systems have also been installed at three of our schools - Ysgol Dyffryn Aman, Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth and Ysgol Gynradd Tycroes. These make use of solar radiation to pre-heat domestic hot water, thereby reducing the need for fossil fuels.

The Council has also installed renewable energy sources within its industrial estate, with Trostre Depot hosting a 49kW solar array and the new Parc Gelli Werdd, a carbon-neutral development located at Cross Hands East, featuring a 62kW solar PV array.

In addition, 125 Council-owned homes across the county have been fitted with solar panels.

These efforts are made possible through initiatives like the Re:Fit Cymru framework, which sees the Council installing renewable energy systems as part as a holistic approach to the decarbonisation of our buildings.

We understand the importance of using renewable energy to help mitigate against climate change and, as such, 100% of the electricity the Council purchases is sourced from renewable energy within Wales and verified by Renewable Energy Guarantees of Origin (REGO) certificates. While this doesn’t guarantee 100% clean energy at the point of use, it reflects its commitment to renewable energy and supports the growth of renewable generation in Wales.

As part of its long-term strategy, the Council is committed to replacing all corporate fossil fuel use with energy derived from renewable sources. This supports its net zero carbon targets and aligns with the Welsh Government’s ambition for 100% renewable energy by 2035. Carmarthenshire’s Local Area Energy Plan estimates that by 2050, the county could generate 2,860 GWh of renewable energy, exceeding the expected demand of 2,000 GWh.

Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation, and Sustainability, Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen said:

Earth Day is an opportunity to reflect on the steps we're taking to create a cleaner and greener county. As a Local Authority, we're committed to making real changes, from reducing carbon emissions to promoting renewable energy. Every action, big or small, contributes to a more sustainable future for us all.

Find out more about the Council’s sustainability efforts at:  https://www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/council-services/climate-change-and-biodiversity/