COUNCIL chiefs are on target to save money thanks to the introduction of a new “green” programme.

Central government charges councils £16 for every tonne of carbon they emit, including heating and lighting public buildings.

From this month street lighting has been included for the first time – meaning that Hampshire County Council would have faced an estimated £140,000 extra per year in carbon tax, had it not have been for the street lighting replacement programme.

The council has set about replacing more than 150,000 street lights as part of its target to reduce carbon emissions by 20 per cent by 2015 and has invested £1.4m into an energy performance programme that will save a further £200,000 per year.

The programme will see 25 of the council’s top energy-consuming buildings made more efficient, and is expected to save £5m over the next 25 years.

Councillor Mel Kendal, Hampshire County Council executive member for income and capital records, said: “We are on track to achieve our 20 per cent carbon reduction target by 2015.

“This is part of our energy strategy that aims to help Hampshire reduce the risks of future energy security and affordability, and contribute to a sustainable low carbon economy throughout Hampshire.”