UK Landmark Big Ben To Be Covered In Solar Panels?
When you think of the UK, or more specifically, of England, it’s very likely that an image of the iconic great clock tower known as Big Ben comes to mind. But what would you say if the image of that old clock tower in your mind — the real-life version was completed all the way back in 1858 — was clad in modern-looking solar panels?
That’s a question that some may soon have to answer, as the British Parliament is currently considering adding solar panels to the face of the iconic clock.
Image Credit: Big Ben via Wiki CC
The potential move comes as part of a broader initiative within the UK government — one which will also see the roofs of the Houses of Parliament covered in solar panels as well.
The Guardian provides more:
Parliamentary passholders were last month asked to submit ideas on how the estate could hit a target to improve energy efficiency by 34% by the end of the decade. One passholder suggested putting solar panels on the clock face of Big Ben, which in 2012 was renamed Elizabeth Tower.
The House Service is also planning to insulate parts of the Palace of Westminster roof with sheep’s wool next year, following a trial with Leeds University which found the material significantly reduced heat loss. Sheep’s wool is water tolerant so could also help to guard against leaks and prevent condensation from building up.
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