AN energy scheme has received £65,000 in pledges just a week after it was launched.

The Brighton Energy Co-op is installing community-owned solar panels in Brighton and Hove.

It is asking people to invest in the scheme and 40 people have so far said they will be involved.

The Co-op is due to install panels in January on St George’s Church in Kemp Town, City Coast Church in Portslade and at Shoreham Port.

Brighton Energy Co-op chairman Will Cottrell said: “It’s fantastic to see so many people getting behind the project. This is a real positive step.

"It’s about local people owning their own energy supply, instead of the big companies."

When the project launches people will be able to buy shares in the Co-op giving them a stake in the project.

For more information visit www.brightonenergy.org.uk.