Finance was raised from the public and private sectors, including SSEG, the Scottish government and several renewable energy companies. Some companies donated equipment rather than cash. In total, a sum equivalent to approx EU20,000 was raised. This allowed a van to be purchased and equipment bought. We decided to call the van “Solar One”, because it is the first of its kind in Scotland.

2. Planning and conception

It was decided that the van should be propelled as far as possible by renewable energy. Research showed that electric propulsion was not feasible because of lack of range and lack of facilities for recharging. The best alternative was bio-diesel and this was the preferred option. Therefore a second-hand diesel van (Ford Transit) was purchased for about EU 10,000. No engine modifications were needed and the van can run on any mix of fuel from 100% bio-diesel to 100% mineral diesel. No problems have been encountered.