A Deal district business is creating the first solar-powered ice cream in the county.
Solley’s Kentish Ice Cream in Deal has added 85 new solar panels.
An existing 115 panels mean the business can generate enough power from the sun to run all of its refrigerators and sell surplus capacity to National Grid.
Dover District Council provided £10,000 to help pay for the installation of new solar panels.
When asked how the council funding has impacted the company’s capacity to invest in solar technology, Solley’s managing director Keith Morrison responded, “It has made a significant difference.
“Due to the council’s efforts, we now have Kent’s first-ever solar-powered ice cream shop.
Solley’s Kentish Ice Cream is the largest independent real dairy ice cream maker in the South East of England.
The family-run business has been producing ice cream for over three decades.
By 2030, Dover Council plans to be a net-zero carbon emitter and hopes to achieve carbon neutrality in the entire district by 2050.
“We are thrilled to be able to help this well-established local business,” Dover District Council cabinet member for climate change Cllr Chris Vinson said.
“Solley’s Kentish Ice Cream will be able to decrease their carbon footprint and keep an eye on their future energy costs thanks to these solar panels, which will be installed on their roof.
“This is per the council’s goal of achieving net-zero in the district.”
Dover City Council promotes a wide range of financial opportunities to assist locals and companies in becoming more energy-efficient.
Up to 50 employees can apply for a green energy subsidy that covers up to 50% of their costs, up to a maximum of £10,000, for small firms.
