A community centre in Walsall is to have a new solar technology roof following its successful bid for government funding.

Streetly Association Sport and Community centre in Walsall will get a new bolt-on photovoltaic system to replace the current sports hall roof, thanks to a grant from the Dept of Trade and Industry. The much needed refurbishment will benefit 800,000 people who use the centre each year.

The new roof will also have improved insulation, and low energy lighting will be installed as part of the refurbishment to help reduce energy demands further.

Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks said: "The installation of microgeneration products such as micro-turbines, solar panels and air source heat pumps are an excellent way for individuals, communities and businesses to make their contribution to tackling climate change."

Mr Wicks also announced £30 million funding over three years for the Low Carbon Building Programme (LCBP).

He said: "The Low Carbon Building Programme will be designed to take a holistic approach to reducing carbon emissions from buildings by combining micro-renewable technologies and energy efficiency measures."