PEOPLE living in new homes in Ravensthorpe are pioneers for a revolution in the way electricity is generated and supplied.
Residents in 30 houses and flats in Heron Close are trying out solar electricity panels.
The panels convert daylight into electricity without any pollution, such as the carbon dioxide from traditional generation methods.
When electricity is not being used, the power is exported from the house into the electricity network.
Many of the residents have opted for a special tariff - meaning they are actually selling electricity back to their supplier at the same price that they buy it.
People living in the homes have told how they are the envy of their friends.
Resident Adelle Shore said: "I am really pleased with our solar system. It saves me about £20 per quarter on my electricity bill.
"Friends and family are always asking how it works and say they would like to have the same thing on their homes."
The scheme has been developed by Kirklees Council working with housing developer Kirklees Community Association.
Councils from Germany, Holland and Spain have also had a hand in the work and are watching the results closely.
Scheme project manager Robert Clark said: "This scheme is a great example of how solar electricity systems can very easily be developed for the benefit of the community and the environment.
"It also shows that the technology can be effective even in the climate of West Yorkshire, which would probably surprise a lot of people."
He revealed that other solar energy projects were expected to follow.
Mr Clark said: "We hope that this is the start of revolution in the way that energy is generated and supplied in Kirklees, which will help us deal with the problem of climate change and provide economic development opportunities in the district."
He said the council was keen to attract more developers and householders keen to use the many grants available for renewable energy technologies.
A two-year monitoring programme will now start - a condition of the European Commission and Department of Trade and Industry funding for the scheme.
During this period the project team will examine its technical aspects and the attitudes of residents.
