Clarien Bank has installed solar panels to power one of its ATM’s making it Bermuda’s first to be directly powered by a renewable energy source, the company said.

The installation, at its Somerset Bridge ATM location, is part its ongoing commitment to being an “agent of change in the areas of environmental sustainability and carbon emissions reduction”, the bank said.

Simon Van de Weg, Clarien’s EVP, chief banking officer, added: “Clarien is committed to driving positive change and a sustainable future and is a leader in providing financing solutions for renewable energy initiatives in the residential and commercial sectors in Bermuda.

“This project is a direct investment in energy efficiency by the bank and importantly also creates an accessible location where people can see an installation in operation, learn more from the available displays about rooftop solar, and its ongoing financial and environmental benefits.”

Last year, Clarien engaged local renewable energy company, BE Solar, to design and manage the installation of the solar panels.

A bank spokesman said that according to the BE Solar team, over the expected 30-year life span the solar system would save 298 barrels of oil from being burnt and 155 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere.

“It is expected to also reduce power supply costs by nearly $280 per month on average and over $100,000 in total during its life span,” said the spokesman.

“We are very excited to add Clarien to our growing list of corporate clients, which also includes Bermuda High School, the National Museum of Bermuda, Masters Ltd and several others,” said a BE Solar spokesperson.

“For several years now, Clarien has been an important BE Solar community partner and has joined us in our vision of an efficient Bermuda powered by affordable renewable energy.”