AN alternative energy company is looking to support Bridges Community Centre by installing solar panels at a farm in the area,

The scheme would see a number of photovoltaic cells at Tynewedd Farm, Clytha, which should raise around £5,000 a year for the community centre.

Chepstow based Gwent Energy is behind the idea as it is a community interest company (CIC) and installs alternative energy solutions for private and commercial use.

It is looking for investors to help raise the projected £200,000 needed to build the 200KW solar energy system and the farm is looking to provide the necessary acre of land rent-free.

Gwent Energy would then install the solar panels and, in conjunction with the charity Bee Friendly Monmouthshire, plant a number of pollinator flowers about the site. There is also the possibility of grazing sheep in the field.

Bridges Community Centre director Mark Walton said: "We are delighted that Gwent Energy has

chosen Bridges Centre as the community beneficiary for its proposed new solar farm at Clytha.

"As with many voluntary organisations, Bridges is finding it increasingly difficult to raise funds during a period of austerity and a scheme like this will provide us with a very important and sustainable source of income for the next twenty years.

"It also happens to be an excellent investment opportunity for individuals so we hope that the scheme will be of great benefit to all concerned."