Ceredigion County Council is consolidating its commitment to the environment, thanks to a pioneering green energy initiative from ScottishPower, parent company of Manweb.

The Council's Swyddfa'r Sir building in Aberystwyth now has its electricity supply matched to small scale hydro and on-shore wind sources of generation operated by ScottishPower. This is the utility company's first renewable energy contract for electricity supplies to the public sector in Wales.

Stewart Saunders, Managing Director of Manweb said: "ScottishPower is leading the way in the race for greater environmental responsibility and is developing solutions to help businesses and consumers play their part in increasing generation from renewable energy sources. This innovative green energy contract will help Ceredigion County Council do their bit for the environment and promote sustainable development."

In addition to reducing its supply costs, Ceredigion County Council will also reduce its carbon dioxide emissions from electricity used under this contract by approximately 90 tonnes. Carbon dioxide is the principal cause of global warming.

Councillor Alun Lloyd Jones, Ceredigion County Council said: "Our decision to purchase renewable energy has been influenced in part by the impending Climate Change Programme. This initiative builds upon our strong commitment to Local Agenda 21 sustainable development strategies." He added: " We believe that local government has an important role to play in making renewable energy supplies a viable option for the UK."

The ScottishPower group is committed to reducing carbon dioxide emissions through its existing hydro power and expanding wind farm portfolio.