Barry Rawlings is asking Barnet cabinet to authorise further work on a long-term solar electricity agreement, with a decision on developing a full business case scheduled for Monday evening.
The Labour council leader's proposal would examine a 15-year power purchase agreement for four gigawatt-hours of electricity annually. That represents around 40% of the council's typical annual electricity demand.
The preferred approach would obtain electricity from a solar farm and fix the wholesale price for the agreed volume. The objectives include greater price certainty and reduced emissions from electricity use.
Contracting terms and several costs remain unconfirmed. Savings depend on the eventual terms: the assessment produces a negative financial return against current budgets under its central cost scenario.
The next stage would examine risks and benefits before any later procurement decision. Cabinet is also being asked to explore electricity from London Energy as an alternative or supplementary option.
