COMMUNITY groups can apply for grants to install wind turbines or solar panels on their buildings.

Staffordshire County Council is offering to help groups get cash to pay for renewable energy schemes.

Not-for-profit organisations like schools, charities and faith groups can get money to pay for renewable technology from the Big Lottery fund.

First, groups must carry out a feasibility study, examining the best way of installing the technology.

Staffordshire County Council is offering to help pay some of the cost of the feasibility study so groups only have to find £100 themselves.

The authority has £10,000 which it will allocate to groups on a first come, first served basis.

Terry Dix, chairman of the county council, said: "The money offered by Staffordshire County Council and the Big Lottery really makes the installation of renewable energy systems a possibility for a wide range of organisations. I would encourage every community group in the county to consider this scheme and take a giant step to reducing their carbon footprint by using solar, wind or wood burning technology."

For more information on the funding scheme, call 01743 277119.