Four contractors have now been selected to develop, design and install photovoltaic (PV) cells to contribute towards national renewable energy targets. The successful companies are; Absolute Solar & Wind Ltd, FES Ltd, Saliis Ltd, and Styles & Wood Ltd.

The framework has been set up by the utility’s subsidiary, Scottish Water Horizons, and will run for an initial period of one-year with two further one-year extensions.

Andrew Macdonald, head of Scottish Water Horizons, said: “This investment further demonstrates Scottish Water’s commitment to reducing energy costs and ultimately keeping bills as low as possible for customers.

“Through use of technologies such as solar panels, several of our water works can now generate at least all - and in some cases more - of the energy they need to operate.

“Not only does this benefit Scottish Water but it contributes to national renewable energy targets.

“We’re pleased to be working with experts in the sector to improve our provision of renewable energy and help maintain Scottish Water’s place as one of the best value providers of water in the UK.”