Homes across Braintree district could have energy-saving solar panels installed if a pilot scheme proves successful.

Greenfields Community Housing has won grant funding from the Energy Saving Trust to install panels on 40 homes.

The innovative solar panel system could cut water bills by as much as 50 per cent.

Greenfields will install solar thermal hot water systems at properties in Highfields, Great Yeldham, and neighbouring roads.

The solar panels will be installed on each home’s roof in order to receive the most heat from the sun.