Time is running out to take advantage of a county council scheme to help householders and businesses to purchase high quality solar panels at a discounted rate.

So far more than 4,100 households and businesses have signed up to the Solar Together Essex initiative. However, residents across Essex now have until 23 March to register their interest for free and without commitment to purchase.

Registering for Solar Together Essex is quick and straightforward - interested customers simply provide basic details about their roof size and orientation. The more people that register, the better the deal for each household or business.

An auction will be held on the closing date - 23 March - where pre-vetted installers submit bids. The most competitive package will win the auction.

Everyone who has registered will be sent a personalised offer and there is no obligation to continue to purchase, with residents having until 21 May to decide.

The Solar Together Essex scheme is aimed at reducing carbon emissions as part of Essex County Council's commitment to make the county net zero by 2050. The scheme last ran in 2018 when more than 300 people across the county installed solar panels - saving an average 20 per cent in the price of solar panels and 286 tonnes of carbon per year.

Battery storage is also available under the scheme. This saves unused energy generated by solar panels, meaning that people can use energy whenever they want and further cutting their energy bills.

Those interested can register online using the link here.

Alternatively, call 0800 048 8639 to register and receive correspondence by post. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.