A solar-panel project allowing residents to own and manage their own energy supply is being set up after receiving council approval.

Work will now begin on the installation of photovoltaic solar cells on 14 buildings of the Banister House Estate, off Homerton High Street in Homerton, after the council granted a 20-year roof lease.

The initiative, led by not-for-profit group Repowering London, means residents can own and invest in renewable energy as well as providing employment opportunities training local people.

Paid apprentices have also been taken on board to help install the panels.

The scheme will make money from the government’s Feed in Tariff.

Feryal Demirci, Hackney Council’s lead Member for neighbourhoods and sustainability, said: “I‘m delighted that the co-operative has been awarded the roof lease agreement. It means they will now be able to produce clean, renewable energy for the estate over the next 20 years.

“This is an incredible, forward-looking project that at once directly benefits estate residents, the wider community and the environment.

“I would like to thank everyone in the co-operative, the council and Hackney Homes who have worked so hard to get to this stage.”